A warm bienvenu is awaiting people from Coutances in France who will arrive in their twin town of Ilkley today.

People in Ilkley have forged a strong relationship with Coutances, which is situated in northern France, since the Second World War.

Margaret Smith, secretary of the Ilkley-Coutances Town Twinning Committee, said: "We hope that Ilkley will welcome them in style. When we go there, we are brilliantly received.

"Coutances is a very similar town to Ilkley in population and it's also not a massively industrial town."

There will be an official civic reception to welcome the visitors in the council chamber at the town hall, Ilkley, at 10am on Saturday. This will be followed by a visit to Newby Hall, house and gardens at 11am.

A civic dinner is to be held on Sunday evening, and will be attended by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Harry Mason, and Lady Mayor, Mrs Mason.

If you are interested in attending the dinner or the visit to Newby Hall, contact Margaret Smith on (01535) 601336.

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