A DELEGATION of French visitors have descended on Bury as part of a week-long visit.

About 18 people have travelled from Bury's twin town of Tulle in central France to explore the borough.

The group arrived in the borough on Sunday, July 8 and have spent six days here, hosted by members of the Bury Town Twinning Association.

Vice chairman Joe Walk said: "During their stay, our visitors have been introduced to the skills of crown green bowling, to the delights of Bury Market and were formally welcomed by the Mayor of Bury with a reception at the Town Hall.

"They also went on trips out to Lake Windermere and Jodrell Bank Observatory.

"The visit concluded on Thursday night with a dinner at Owens Restaurant & Bar in Ramsbottom."

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Jane Black, welcomed the guests at Bury Town Hall on Wednesday, where they met Mayors past and present.

The delegation has been here since last Sunday with the overall visit being overseen by Yvonne Moore from the Bury Metro Community Twinning Association.

Cllr Jane Black said: “It was a pleasure to host this French delegation.

"I speak quite fluent French so I was able to converse very well with our visitors which was much appreciated. "

The visitors, ranging in age from nine to 90, were welcomed with refreshments in the Mayor’s Parlour.

"While at the Town Hall there was the opportunity to view the civic ceremonial dress and insignia while also learn about the role and duties of the Mayor and how this differs from the town mayors in France.

"The group also visited the Council chamber to hear about how the meetings are run.

"The group have also visited other places of interest in Bury and Greater Manchester before leaving for France on Friday."