KINVER and Stourbridge residents are being invited on a week-long coach trip to central France as part of the village’s twinning association biennial visit.

Between May 23 and May 30, Kinver Twinning Association will be spending time in the twinned village of Mer, located on the north bank of the Loire River.

Visitors will live with a French family throughout the week, specifically chosen by the association’s Mer counterparts, with accommodation and food provided.

A jam-packed week of daily coach trips and activities has also being organised by the committee, including a visit to Paris.

Heather Pickford, chairman, said: “The members of the association are absolutely looking forward to this year’s trip.

“Every time we go we really have a lovely time and are always warmly welcomed by our Mer families.”

Attendees will be invited to a drinks reception and also take a visit to nearby towns in the Loire Valley, including Blois and Beaugency, where they get the chance to dabble in a bit of shopping.

David Swithin, association secretary, said: “The highlight of the visit will be the Thursday evening soirée, where all the hosts, Kinver twinners and guests will dine before being entertained until the wee small hours in a very convivial local environment.”

Each year the twins trade visits, with Kinver families welcoming their French counterparts next year.

A year’s membership of the association costs £10 with an added £200 to contribute to the costs of transport to and from Kinver and Stourbridge. Additional small charges for entry into places of interest apply.

For more information, or to join the trip, call Sandra Davies on 01384 873665.