Bonnyrigg & Lasswade Twinning Association exists to help foster links with our Twin Town, St Cyr L'École in France. We can help local organisations make contact with similar groups in St Cyr and can help with translation and arranging accommodation and transport.

Even if you don't belong to any group, if you are interested in France, French culture, or who would simply like to know more about  France, Paris, Versailles or St Cyr, please contact us to find out more, and maybe you can give us some new ideas!

What is Town Twinning all about?

Town Twinning started just after World War II as a way of breaking down cultural barriers in Europe and to hopefully see an end to conflict on our continent.

The idea was to 'twin' towns and cities in the UK with ones of similar size and setting towns and cities those initially in France. By promoting exchange visits between school children and members of specific interest groups (e.g. sports clubs), bonds would be formed between the communities and a common understanding would develop.

Although most twinning arrangements are with communities in France, some involve other countries. Midlothian, for example, is twinned with the Kreis-Henisberg region of Germany and with Komerom-Esztergom in Hungary. Of the towns in Midlothian, Danderhall, Dalkeith, Loanhead and Penicuik are all twinned with different French towns.

How long have we been 'twinned'?

The agreement was signed on 18th October 1964 by both the Mayor of Bonnyrigg, John Moffat and the Mayor of St Cyr, Raymond Paraud.

Which local organisations have been involved over the years?

Lasswade Rugby Club and Bonnyrigg Ex-Servicemen's Association have been involved from the start, with regular exchanges taking place each year. Lasswade High School has organised student exchanges and various groups including Bonnyrigg Scouts, the Judo club and the Over 50s have all made new friends in St Cyr.

Who can become involved?

Anyone living locally, or involved in a local organisation, not living within an area covered by another twinning association in Midlothian can become involved in our twinning organisation. There is currently no membership subscription. As we are a sub-committee of Bonnyrigg & Lasswade Community Council, all BLCC members are automatically members of the Association and you can join by contacting the Community Council. We also have representatives from Poltonhall Community Council.