Having been taken to her apartment for lunch, we were quickly shepherded to the Rathaus (Town Hall) to be greeted by the Burgermeister, Horst Gross.

After lengthy chats and being shown around the Rathaus, it was out for coffee and cakes with Horst. We then had a most enjoyable barbecue with friends.

The local folk evening was, indeed, very entertaining and, as well as the usual presentations and speeches, we found ourselves called upon stage during the latter part of the evening to take part in a dance routine, along with Horst.

Having spent Saturday with our host, it was soon time for the church service and the lampion procession, where children from the town meet outside the church and with lanterns and candles proceed to parade through the town, finishing at the fire station for a speech from Horst.

Home, quick change and then onto the Hotel Herschngerhoff for further celebrations.

On Sunday, despite the weather, it was parade time, which, all in all, takes approximately two hours to complete; then, into the beer tent to hear the bands playing.

Monday as usual was breakfasts in the Wasser offices, on to the beer tent, Hotel Herschngerhoff, the shooting club and the previously known tennis club.

Keeping up the pace was really something!

We then met up for a wonderful firework display, then back to the beer tent where the ‘Golden Oldies’ were performing. A great group, but once again we were on stage taking part in a dance/singing routine with Horst.

We were entertained by Horst Gross at his home on Tuesday evening with a meal, and it was good to have an evening in a very relaxed atmosphere with the family.

The weekend was soon over, with much regret, but we had a splendid time and came home with many happy memories.

Our many grateful thanks must be given to Horst Gross and members of the council for making us so very welcome.

l Looking ahead to our 40th- year celebrations of Town Twinning, from July 1-6, 2010, may I appeal for host families to come forward.

We are expecting two coachloads of visitors to Knaresborough and this will involve a considerable amount of people who will hopefully be willing to act as hosts.

If interested, please contact me on 01423 863654, earlier rather than later, as we will need to start with the arrangements very early.