Back in January, my regular column (Romsey Loves…) focused on the topic of “Twinning” – the symbolic and sometimes productive coupling of towns and cities that are countries apart. In it I explained the concept, history, and who Romsey’s own Twinning partners are today. The article was well received, and consequently, Romsey Twinning Association’s chairman, Roland Matthews, reached out to make me aware of the challenges the group faces at keeping the town’s European friendships alive.
To give some context, Romsey is paired with the French, German, and Italian towns of Paimpol, Battenberg, and Treviglio. Mr Matthews has been chairman of RTA since 2017, which to date has 67 members – all of whom self-fund the group. No financial support is provided from any public body, and participation and organisation is solely voluntary. Despite this, they continue to play a big role in representing Romsey on the world stage; hosting and sending delegates on trips to Twin hosted events and festivals. Activities still fairly unknown to most Romsonians… until now.
Through a chat over Zoom, we discussed the behind the scenes running of Romsey Twinning, as well as the ongoing challenges to its survival. I bring to you that full conversation, exclusively for the Gazette.
It’s nice to meet you Roland. Tell me, what are the responsibilities of RTA?
Hello Alex. We do a whole range of duties to maintain active friendships on behalf of Romsey. We organise alternating trips: sending and receiving delegates between each twin. Usually to attend festivals as invited guests. In addition to the twinning exchanges, we normally hold an annual dinner in a local restaurant, an AGM and an annual quiz night, with occasionally other social and fund-raising activities.
What are the challenges facing Romsey Twinning today?
Ageing members and a lack of new blood is our number one concern, which is why it is important we raise awareness and attract new members. Admittedly we do need to improve our online media presence because the closure of Romseynet has hindered our outreach. So we are developing a new website.
The obvious challenge we faced previously was covid, which restricted our in-person contact with our friends in Paimpol, Battenberg, and Treviglio. Post covid, there are those who are still apprehensive about foreign travel. Plus with social media, people are less incentivized to travel when they can communicate online with ease.
What strategies and ideas does the association have to combat these challenges?
While online contact has helped keep the relationships steady, including for members who have cultivated their own friendships with twinning members abroad, we want to get back to interacting in-person. E-twinning is complimentary, but not a replacement. So we really want to focus on creating more opportunities for physical meets. For example, we do have ambitions to timetable more sporting fixtures as we have done in the past between Romsey teams and our partners local teams.
What would you argue are the benefits of Romsey having Twins?
It’s a great thing to have! It shows Romsey is outward looking. And it safeguards educational values and the celebration of other cultures. Experiencing different sounds, smells, tastes. It looks impressive to outsiders as a lively and cultured place to be, which encourages tourism. It still has relevance to businesses and those who appreciate the tradition. Plus it is cost effective. We are not a financial drain on the public because we fund ourselves, but our activities do benefit the community.
Are the relationships with our twins stable today?
Yes. There have been periods of silence in communication that has been worrying. But we are adamant to keep going as long as there is interest from both sides.
Are there any plans to retry Twinfest?
Not currently. Calling it off in 2021 was disappointing as it would have been the first time all three twins would have been here together. It was originally conceived to celebrate 60 years of friendship with Paimpol. However, a theatre troupe from Treviglio will participate in Beggars Fair this summer with stilt performers as you may remember them doing before. They will also be at the Plaza for 3 days for the Romsey Festival.
We have to tread lightly with any hopes to organise big events as it requires a tremendous amount of logistics. And again we need townwide interest and members to help make them happen.
Thank you for your time.
To find out more about Romsey Twinning and how to get involved, contact their email: romseytwinning@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.
