RAYNE   Twinning   Association

On Tuesday 19th May 1992 a meeting was held to elect a steering group to investigate the viability of forming a Twinning Association for this village.  Application was made to the Local Government International Bureau and a shortlist of potential villages in France was obtained.  From the shortlist Verberie emerged as a clear winner.   Once the choice had been made and mutually agreed with the committee in Verberie, it was time for the steering group to stand down and for a formal association to be formed.

The Rayne Twinning Association was founded at an inaugural meeting on 20th December 1993 with it's first objective to arrange the formal twinning ceremony or 'Jumelage' on the weekend of 21st - 22nd May 1994.  We received and hosted a coach of French guests and the celebrations began.  After lunch everybody assembled at the Village Crest and a parade, led by the Scout band, walked to the village playing field where an oak tree was planted to mark the permanent bond between the two villages.  The formal planting being performed by Roger Martin, chairman of Rayne Twinning, and Patrick Fleury, Mayor of Verberie.

The procession then walked to the War Memorial where Roger and Patrick dedicated a wreath to those killed in war from both countries.  This was followed by a short service in the Church and a blessing.  Children from Rayne Primary School demonstrated traditional English dancing round a Maypole.  Next because of traditional English drizzle we withdrew to the Old School Room where the charter was signed by Roger Jiggins and Patrick Fleury with speeches of acceptance.  In the evening there was a traditional English barn dance at the Coach House in Saling, where many celebratory drinks were consumed !

From then we haven't looked back.  Each year we have a formal visit alternately to France or to receive them in England.  The two committees also meet near the coast on either side to arrange future activities.  This meeting, which also alternates between the two countries, combines the meeting with a visit to a town with historical or other interest and an appropriate visit so that this becomes a social event and a chance to renew acquaintances.  There are also informal visits and of course private exchanges between members of the two associations.