A small semi-rural town of about 11,000 people. It is in the department of the Loire in the region of the Rhone-Alpes.
- 400km from Paris and 85km away from Lyon, it can easily be reached by road, rail or air.
- The nearest airport is 85km away at St. Etienne.
- The nearest railway station is 2km away at Roanne.
A beautiful region, from the plateaux in the North to the mountainous peaks and steep slopes in the South. You will find green hills, rivers, lakes, meadows and vineyards.
Elland - Riorges Twinning Association
In October 1978, in an official ceremony in the Town Hall of Riorges, Elland in Calderdale became twinned with Riorges. This is seven hundred miles away in France. Before then "visits of inspection" had been made:
- In January 1978, by an Elland group to Riorges;
- and then in the February, by a Riorges group to Elland.
It was so successful that by Easter, the first exchange group of school children came to Elland from Riorges. A group from Elland went to Riorges in the July.
Now, every year, groups of young people visit the homes of their correspondents for a fortnight. Then they welcome their foreign correspondents into their own homes. There is also one adult visit each year.
Hundreds of friendships have been formed and many involve regular family visits. A large number of young people and adults now speak a foreign language much better. They also are more aware of and understand other culture and ways of life.
Many adults take part as both guests and hosts in the regular exchange visits. They say that they could not have imagined how much pleasure it brings. Also adding that they get out of them far more than they would ever have believed possible.
It has taken a lot of hard work to bring this about. With a great deal of co-operation and support it has all been very worthwhile. Those who put in the work certainly reap the pleasure.
Why not get involved?
The Association is always actively seeking more members. If anyone would like to know more, you are welcome to contact the Chairperson.
- Mr P.G. Cleary
- Telephone: 01422 374000
- 12 Melrose Terrace
Savile Road
Elland
HX5 0LY