CALLS have been made for Droitwich to be twinned with a Ukrainian spa town one year after Russia invaded the country.
The idea was put to the Standard by Droitwich resident Dave Davidson.
Mr Davidson has also spoken to a Droitwich councillor suggesting a possible twinning be explored.
Droitwich is currently twinned with Bad Ems in Germany and Voiron in France with twinning associations organising alternate yearly trips, football matches and other activities throughout the year.
The town has been a staunch supporter of the people of Ukraine over the past year.
Acts of solidarity have included families signing up for the Homes for Ukraine scheme, residents travelling to the country delivering vital supplies and numerous fund-raisers such as cake sales. Last month, on the first anniversary of the invasion, a Ukrainian refugee who had settled in the town spoke of the warm welcome she and her son had received.
Coun George Duffy backed Mr Davidson’s suggestion.
He said: “I think it’s an excellent idea, I’ve been hugely impressed with the town’s support of Ukraine over the past year.
“Droitwich has a great history of being twinned with other parts of the world and I’ve seen the fabulous work the twinning associations of Germany and France have put in.”
He added if enough people wanted to back the idea, they would need to form an association, decide on a Ukrainian spa town they would like to twin with and communicate with them.
“I’ve always thought planning was a key part of this process.
“For it to be a success people would need to ensure there were events and activities all year and that families making trips for any future events could be housed while here.”
Coun Duffy added if enough people in Droitwich wanted to twin with a Ukrainian spa town he would assist in putting them in contact with the German and French associations for support and details on further steps.
After a potential twinning had been established, the next stage of the process would be bringing the proposal to the town council for permission and representation.
- What do you think? Would you like to see Droitwich twinned with a Ukrainian spa town? Email [email protected] with your views.
