FRIENDSHIPS across the Channel were celebrated in style as Salisbury rolled out a warm welcome for visitors from its French twin town.

A group from Saintes, in Charente-Maritime, spent five days in the city last week, enjoying a packed programme of history, culture and local hospitality.

The visit began with an official welcome at the Guildhall, where mayor, Cllr John Wells, who is president of the Salisbury-Saintes Twinning Association, greeted the group alongside Councillor Jenny Bolwell and staff.

Guests were given a full tour of the historic building before settling into their stay.

Over the following days, the French visitors explored some of the region’s most iconic sights.

From the tranquillity of Mottisfont Abbey to the grandeur of Bath, the itinerary showcased the best of the area.

A trip to Stonehenge proved a must-see, while time spent in Salisbury itself included a visit to the cathedral.

Mayor and twinning association president Cllr John Wells talks with visitors. (Picture: Salisbury-Saintes Twinning Association)

For many, the standout moment was coming face-to-face with one of Britain’s most treasured documents.

“A highlight for many of them was seeing the Magna Carta,” said Mervyn Pannett, chairman of the twinning association

The visit was not just about sightseeing: it was also a chance to strengthen long-standing friendships between the two communities.

The group spent time with members of the twinning association, councillors and former mayors, rounding off their stay with a farewell evening at the New Inn.

Before heading home via Portsmouth, the group made one final stop at Furzey Gardens.

Trip organiser Marie-Claude Daguerre said the visit had been an “outstanding success” and that the group had been overwhelmed by the warm welcome they received.

Salisbury has been twinned with Saintes for decades, with regular exchanges helping to build lasting cultural and personal connections.