A PARTY of Burnley people have been promised a warm French welcome when they travel to the twin town of Vitry.

More than 100 are making the journey for an Easter break with families across the English Channel.

Among the visitors will be some VIPs, including Burnley's Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor Arthur Park and his wife, Eileen, council leader Kath Reade and her family, and Ian Wolstencroft, who is deputising for the council's chief executive.

Burnley Twinning Association is also sending an official delegation consisting of chairman Sheila Harris, secretary Regine Simpson and treasurer Robert Atkinson.

Mrs Simpson said the visit would strengthen further the links between the two towns. She said: "Vitry had no problems in finding accommodation for us all. In fact, they still have a list of people wishing to welcome families from Burnley.

"It is a very good sign and proof that Vitry is also committed to this new twinning link."

The visit is the latest in a busy period for the 12-month-old twinning association. A year of activities was reported to the recent annual meeting. Other events included a pensioners' exchange and the official signing of the charter.

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