DARTMOUTH is finally to become a Sister City with its namesake in Massachusetts, USA – and some residents will be able to be at the signing of the document that makes it official.
Since 1998, when the first delegation arrived from Dartmouth, Mass, there have been efforts by the Americans to officially endorse the twinning.
Spokesman and town councillor Gina Coles said: ‘The union is seen as a chance for friendly Anglo-American ties, which will attract more tourists and also encourage schools on both sides of the Atlantic to work together.
‘Now, with the preparation of the Mayflower 400 commemorations gathering pace, it was decided that this exciting episode in the town’s history would be the perfect place to launch the formal countdown to the 400th anniversary of Mayflower sailing from the port in 2020.’
The signing will take place at a gala dinner on Saturday, May 21, in the Guildhall. Special guests will include a party from the American Embassy.
There are a limited number of tickets on sale at £35. Included in the ticket price is a three-course dinner and a welcome drink.
In the past 18 years there have been three visits here by the Americans and twice the Dartmouth, Devon, mayor of the time and a civic party has been invited to join anniversary celebrations in Massachusetts.
Cllr Coles said these visits had generated friendships and great interest in each other’s towns and lives. The last visit was in September 2014 when the town’s current mayor and mayoress Rob and Di Lyon headed a group who helped celebrate the 350th anniversary of the founding of Dartmouth, Massachusetts.
Cllr Lyon said he was delighted the friendships already forged between the two towns had finally led to a more formal relationship.
He added: ‘The visit by the delegation from Dartmouth, Massachusetts, presents a wonderful opportunity for our town to reciprocate the welcome that we received from them in 2014. As mayor, Di and I were privileged to take part in their celebration of the founding of their town, and what a magnificent celebration it was.
‘By signing this Sister City Agreement, we are confirming a connection between our two towns and the friendship, alliance and cultural exchanges that will develop in the future.
‘Please join me in ensuring our guests enjoy their time in our beautiful town and county for the few days they are here. We will certainly enjoy hosting them.’
Lindsay Ellwood, chairman of the project’s education sub-committee, said: ‘We are very excited at the prospect of forging stronger links with our education counterparts in Dartmouth, Massachusetts.
‘There will be many opportunities to explore, and I look forward to discussing concepts with them during their forthcoming visit in May.’
Tickets are on sale at the Guildhall council office in Victoria Road.