Visit from Marans to Barrow in 2019

After months of planning and fund raising we were finally ready to receive our friends from Marans for a long weekend commencing on Thursday 30th May 2019.

Ted and Geoff went with the bus down to Stansted Airport to welcome "Les Marandais". The first evening was spent with their respective host family.

Friday morning we had a guided tour of Beaumanor Hall and the decoding rooms used during WW2. Later that afternoon we attended the Parish Council Welcome event at "Freckles" tearoom. Councillor Sandie Forrest gave a warm welcome to our visitors followed by a classic English afternoon tea and cakes. After which, a ceremonial planting of French rose bushes took place in the garden adjacent to the Three Crowns Inn. The day finished with a visit to see Greyhound racing at Colwick racetrack.

Saturday, the sun was shining, just right for spending a day at the "1940's Wartime Weekend" organised by Great Central Railway. Lovely to see some of our group dressed up in period costume, they did look the part! A spectacular experience and highlight of the weekend according to our guests. Small family groups joined together for evening dinner.

Sunday was a free day spent with the host family doing what we wished. It turned out to be wet and windy, but undeterred, some went for walks and boat rides etc. To end the day, we all met at the home of Richard and Sylvia Steane for a "Bring and Share" garden buffet supper. Winter coats and scarves were needed as there was a cold wind blowing. We had the traditional singsong accompanied by Jan on the Piano, Peter and Ed on clarinets.

Monday morning saw us all assembled at NT Baddesley Clinton House for a guided tour to discover its history. By midday the sun was out enabling us to enjoy a picnic in the grounds. The afternoon was free for exploring the beautiful gardens and park.