FAQs about Twinning

How do I become a member?

Membership is open to anyone with a link with Syston and the surrounding area. Membership is £4.00 per person per year, juniors 5-14, £2.00, (2007 rate, reviewed annually,) and requires no qualification other than the desire to want to explore and understand the French way of life.

Who runs the Twinning?

An administrative body made up of a panel, which is elected from current active members, runs the Twinning. This panel is directly responsible to the Town Council, and information regarding activities is regularly passed to them.

How is the Twinning funded?

Funds are provided through fund raising events and in previous years the Town Council has funded our Deville visitors. (Application for funds has been made for each visit.) There are also grants, which can be applied for, both local and European.

How does twinning work and when can I go to France?

Until May 2006 the visits have taken place in November, then May the following year. It has now been agreed by both towns to change the visit to one visit each year, normally in May. In May 2008, Syston will visit Deville.

Anyone can join in on these visits, or can meet the French delegation when they visit Syston. The highlight of each visit is a party, or meal, which is usually held on the Saturday evening.

Where do I stay in Deville?

Accommodation is provided with a French family. This is one of the main purposes of twinning, to learn and understand a different way of life.

What about the food?

Whilst we may be relatively close to France in geographical terms, the way of life enjoyed by the French is still quite different from our own. Apart from the language, there is a distinct difference in eating. Each region of France is fiercely proud of its cooking and its produce. Generally speaking, greater attention is paid to the preparation and serving of food, and a meal can take a long time. It is a time for talking and is regarded as a social event.

Much has been made about 2 culinary items, frogs legs and snails. These are eaten by some, but the French are sensitive about our British diet, and will ask before presenting you with anything which they think you will not like. Some hosts keep a record of what you like or dislike.

What about wine?

It is true that the French do drink wine with meals (but not that children drink wine. This is only on special occasions, and is usually a watered down version.) Sometimes the wine is changed with each course. If you have had enough, simply say so, they will understand and not consider you rude.

What if I am a vegetarian, or require a special diet?

Tell us when you book, it’s as simple as that.

How do we travel?

The preferred method is by coach, always provided with toilets and drinks, and then by ferry. The cost to you is for the coach, which includes the ferry. Any additional money is just for spending money. We have also made visits by car when the cost is shared by the number of people in the car. The cost, and method of transport, depends on the number of people travelling.

Do I pay anything to my hosts?

No, but it is nice to take a small gift, possibly something that is typically British.

What about the language?

Don’t worry, most French people speak a little English. But even if they don’t, it’s amazing how many friendships have developed without knowledge of each others language. Once the initial shyness is over it becomes fun trying to communicate with each other, and there is always the dictionary to help.

Are there any conditions associated with being a member?

Only one. If you have been to Deville, you are expected to return the hospitality by hosting visitors from Deville the next time they come to Syston.

I belong to a group, can a group go?

We are always looking for new groups or organisations to visit comparable groups in Deville. Over the years, Syston Operatic, Syston Scouts, and Syston Band among many others have visited with us. At present we are seeking an exchange with an Allotment Society.

What about school links?

There have been strong links in the past. At present the links for Merton Primary, and Roundhill College are being re established.

What do I do now?

If what you have read interests you, please complete our membership form or contact one of the persons listed below.

Mr. Ian Baker Chairman 0116 2303835.
Mrs. Kathy Wright Vice Chairman 0116 2676325.
Mrs. Ann Baker Secretary 0116 2303835.
Mrs. Kathryn Grocock-Matts Treasurer 01509 813723.