Recently the chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Councillor Barry McElduff hosted a reception to welcome students from Bielefeld who were on an exchange visit with students from Enniskillen Royal Grammar School as part of a continued twinning arrangement between the two schools.

As he welcomed the students during the reception, which was held at Enniskillen Castle, Councillor McElduff outlined the history of the twinning arrangement.

He said: "I understand that Enniskillen was first twinned with Brackwede in 1958 until 1973 when the suburb was incorporated into the city of Bielefeld. Notably, this was also the year that the legacy Fermanagh District Council was formed. The first school exchanges between the two regions are recorded back to 1972.

"It is fitting that we are in Enniskillen Castle this afternoon as I understand there is a strong connection between the Castle and your home city of Bielefeld," continued Councillor McElduff, going on to comment that school exchange opportunities are an "important part of the curriculum" for young people because they build confidence and linguistic ability as well as encouraging them to expand their intercultural awareness and gain valuable skills which can be transferred to the workplace and their own personal life in the future.

"Another key benefit is the lifelong friendships that you will make," he added.

He continued by commending all of the teachers from over the years in both regions for continuing to maintain the links with Bielefeld for the last 64 years.

"This is a significant commitment and a tremendous achievement," said Councillor McElduff.

Addressing the students from Bielefeld directly, he added: "I hope you have enjoyed your time in Fermanagh and that you have many happy memories to take home. I am told that you had a very busy schedule which included the opportunity to visit some of our attractions and activities we have to offer. I hope that you tell your family and friends when you return home and perhaps you will make a return visit with them in the future."