ON July 31, 1944 Crediton’s twin town of Avranches was liberated after occupation by the German Army and this year the event’s 75th Anniversary was commemorated with a full day of activities.

Mayors from Avranches’ four twin towns were present with Mayor and Mayoress of Crediton, Frank and Natalia Letch, joining the Mayors of Korbach (Germany), St Helier (Jersey) and St Gaudens (The French “Godmother Town” which provided support to the inhabitants of Avranches post liberation).

Also present from Crediton were Peter and Valerie Brewer who had previously attended the 50th and 60th Anniversaries (Peter was Chairman of the Crediton Twinning Association when he was one of the signatories on the Twinning Charter in 1993).

The events of July 31 started in the morning with the guests being driven to St Martin des Champs near Avranches for the first wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial near the Church.

This took place in the presence of numerous former soldiers and representatives of the various groups in the region both military and civil.

National Anthems were played and everyone was then invited to a buffet in the local hall. A large number of Second World War military vehicles had assembled and were present throughout the day.

The next part of the commemoration took place in Place Patton when a large number of spectators joined in further a ceremony which included more wreath laying.

A poppy wreath was laid by Frank and Natalia and General Patten’s Granddaughter Helen also laid a wreath.

National Anthems of The United States, The United Kingdom, Canada and France were played reflecting the forces that had taken part in D Day and which led to the liberation of Avranches.

The military flag bearers then led a procession down Rue de la Constitution to the Town Square where further ceremony took place.

A stage in the square provided the venue for speeches, music and singing (including “The D Day Ladies” and a Gospel Choir).

Later a further buffet was enjoyed by all guests and everything throughout the day was in the presence of the Mayor of Avranches, David Nicholas.

Peter Brewer