MORRIS dancers from Newton Abbot crossed the Channel to represent the town’s twinning association in the French twin town of Aÿ-Champagne.

The Raddon Hill Clog Morris side showed the vibrant spirit of Newton Abbot when they attended the Fête Henri IV celebrations.

The event was a resounding success marked by cultural exchange, music, dance and heartfelt hospitality.

The group also enjoyed an exclusive visit to the Pressoria, the acclaimed Champagne Museum during their trip.

This special tour, organised as a gesture of goodwill by the Mayor of Aÿ, offered the Newton Abbot contingent a fascinating insight into the region's world-famous champagne-making tradition.

The climax of the visit was the participation in the festival’s grand procession.

The streets of Aÿ came alive as the Morris side joined an array of colourful floats, adorned with festive decorations and walked alongside bands and dancers from other towns twinned with Aÿ, which are in Germany, Italy and Belgium.

Dancing to the clack of wooden clogs and the lilting strains of traditional tunes, the Morris side captivated onlookers with a taste of English folk heritage.

Following their lperformance in front of the dignitaries from Aÿ and Mayors of the visiting twin towns, Brian Parkman, committee member from Newton Abbot Twinning Association, took part in a ceremony where gifts were presented to Aÿ’s Mayor, as a token of gratitude for the exceptional welcome.

Later, Raddon Hill’s Triss and Ron Cummings presented gifts to the head administrator of the Town Hall, who worked tirelessly to ensure the visit’s success.

Raddon Hill Clog Morris squire Ron Cummings said: ‘We had an absolutely fantastic time.

‘The welcoming spirit of Aÿ and the opportunity to share our traditions with others made this trip truly memorable.

‘We’re honoured to have represented Newton Abbot and to have strengthened the wonderful connection between our towns.

‘The visit stands as a shining example of how town twinning can bring people together, forge lasting friendships, and celebrate the rich tapestry of European culture.’