Connecting Friends: Twin towns York and Münster Ursula Lanvers, Liz O’Neill, Alex Newport and Gweno Williams
Event details
Why are York and Münster twinned? What does that mean anyway?
In this age of conflict, war and isolationism, town twinning offers a way to get to know our neighbours directly. The longstanding friendship between Münster and York makes a powerful connection, giving opportunities for our schools, young adults, sport and hobby groups, and all York residents.
Some might think of town twinning as an old-fashioned concept in this internet era - but on the contrary, online communications widen the connections and town twinning is more meaningful and valuable than ever.
For York and Münster, interest groups across the two cities are already talking, travelling, meeting, sharing their enthusiasms; and plans are developing for other groups. Successful school exchanges take place every year, giving young people insights into life in their partner’s city. Cyclists are planning visits on two wheels from one city to the other. A bilingual online bookclub is thriving and so are email friendships. Meanwhile, in York, German speakers and learners meet regularly around a pub table for the pleasure of talking German together.
Come along and learn about the background to our twinning and hear about some recent, present and future activities. Speakers include Ursula Lanvers, Chair of York Münster Twinning Association (YMTA); Liz O’Neill and Alex Newport from Huntington School; and Gweno Williams of YMTA.
This event is presented by the York Münster Twinning Association.
Learn more about the York Münster Twinning Association.
Photo credit: Chris Copland
About the speakers
Dr Ursula Lanvers is Chair of YMTA and Associate Professor in Language Education in the Department of Education at the University of York.
Liz O’Neill and Alex Newport lead the successful exchange programme at Huntington School.
Emeritus Professor Gweno Williams is a lifelong enthusiast for theatre, literature and culture.