TWENTY-SEVEN students from Chard’s German twin have toured the town’s landmark employer, and met the mayor and crier.

The group of pupils from Helmstedt were brought over by Bettina Freidrick, and they were joined by 15 adults who are learning English.

They visited Numatic, Chard Museum and Holyrood Academy, before a welcoming event.

The mayor, councillor Garry Shortland, Clive Saunders the mace-bearer, and the town crier Stuart Cummings officially welcomed the students in the Town Hall, where they enjoyed a Somerset cream tea.

Collette Boyle, secretary of the Chard Helmstedt Society, said: “A group of 50 guests from Helmstedt will be visiting Chard from July 25 to 30 this year.

If you would like to participate and host a person for five nights please do contact secretary@chardhelmstedtsociety.org.uk.

Next year, 2020, will be the 40th anniversary of the official twinning of Chard and Helmstedt.