A FIFTY year celebration of twinning between two regions was celebrated recently when a delegation from Amberg-Sulzbach in Bavaria visited in Argyll and Bute.

The twinning arrangements between the districts date back to 1967. During this visit the council leaders signed a joint charter, or Urkunde, to signify the importance of continuing and strengthening the twinning partnership between the German and Scottish regions.

Councillor Aileen Morton, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said: “Internationalisation is a key priority for Scotland’s and Argyll and Bute’s economy and by strengthening our links with the global economy we can increase trade, attract investment and share expertise.

“This visit reinforced the strong links we have with Amberg-Sulzbach and had a strong focus on economic growth as well as culture. The Bavarian district is experiencing the same challenges that we are experiencing in Argyll and Bute and the twinning arrangement is extremely important for us both.”

During the group’s four day visit to the area the delegates visited shops, enjoyed a concert and travelled to conservation areas in the region.