Longford shows its strong connections with Ballinamuck-Essert twinning

The French twinning partners, Essert, Franche Comte will arrive in Ballinamuck today, Wednesday, July 23, for an exciting programme of events to mark the 28th anniversary of this historic twinning which first took place in France in 1997.

The twinning was initiated by Ballinamuck Community Enterprise Group as part of the Bi-centenary of the 1798 Rebellion. In 1798 a contingent of French soldiers was sent to Ireland by Napoleon under the command of General Humbert, who came from the Vosges region of northeastern France , a neighbouring county to Franche Comte.

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That support was too little , too late and the combined Irish and French forces were defeated at the Battle of Ballinamuck. The event has lived on in the folk memory of the people of Ballinamuck and resonates to this day.

Ballinamuck Enterprise Group, a local voluntary committee have maintained this link with Essert, France over the past 28 years. The twinning exchanges have always included events focused on the young people of both areas see www.ballinamuck.ie/twinning.

This year is no exception. Ballinamuck young people have been planning the programme of events. This ensures that the young people experience first hand the work involved in planning a schedule of activities and are also part of making it happen.

The plan includes a sports day using local amenities. A beach day, overnight camping in an outdoor pursuits centre, a day of digital skills and safety in the Foroige Attic House.

The adult visitors have their own programme including a visit to Cavan Museum and Crafts of Ireland, a cycle along the Royal Canal Greenway to Cloughan Farm, chocolate making in Torc in Longford, a day trip to the Titanic exhibition in Belfast and a civic Reception kindly hosted by Longford Council.

The twinning visit will culminate with a community evening celebrating Twinning 2025 and showing highlights of the week.

PICTURES: Sun shines in Longford over the weekend for fantastic Ballinamuck Olde Fair

Ballinamuck Community Enterprise would like to acknowledge the support they have received in organising this event from the Ballinamuck community, the host families, Longford County Council and everyone who supports our fundraising events throughout the year.