VISITORS from Ilkley's twin town of Coutances were welcomed by the band from Ilkley's Air Training Cadet Squadron when they attended an official reception at Ilkley Town Hall.

The party from Normandy arrived last Friday and went home on Tuesday morning, apart from the Mayor of Coutances, who had to leave early because of work commitments.

Among the French party were twinning committee members and representatives from the business and education.

Ilkley Parish Council chairman Kate Brown said that visit was a very successful one.

After the Civic Reception, the parties attended a dedication ceremony at the Canker Well at the junction of Cunliffe Road and The Grove, where a bench has been placed in memory of the late Molly Renton, pioneer of twinning and former Ilkley Parish Council chairman.

"I think her family very much appreciated the thought," Coun Brown said.

The party were be taken for a meal at Harry Ramsdens before visiting the Abbey House Museum in Leeds.

On Sunday the visitors attended a Civic Service at the Roman Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart, Ilkley, and a Civic Dinner at Ilkley tennis club.