A ceremony has taken place in Farnham to mark 75 years of friendship with a Dutch counterpart.

Farnham’s first formal international link was formalised in 1950 when citizens from Haren in The Netherlands visited in an allied commitment to peace, understanding, friendship and co-operation.

A small group recently came together in Haren Garden off South Street to mark the diamond anniversary of the link.

Attendees included town mayor, Cllr Brodie Mauluka, and Brian Daniels, who was involved in the first visit and who shared memorabilia from the time.

Neil Peerman of Farnham Scouts also took part as his father was involved in the original gathering which involved both scouts and guides.

Cllr Mauluka said: “While the formal ties between the two towns may have lessened over time, the spirit of friendship continues.

“Each year, Farnham plants tulips - a quiet and simple tribute, supported by a donation from local resident Hans du Moulins. It is a small act but one that symbolises a connection that has stood the test of time.”

He added: “Today, both Farnham and Haren are towns proud of their heritage and hopeful for their future.

“In times of change, the values that brought our communities together - goodwill, openness, and mutual respect - are as vital now as they were then.”

The ceremony concluded with Cllr Mauluka reading from Robert Browning’s poem “Oh, to be in England”, which was included in the April 1950 official programme.

The civic welcome involved plenty of well-known dignitaries with guests including Lord and Lady Baden-Powell, the Lord Lieutenant, the Bishop of Guildford and a representative of the Dutch Ambassador.

A weekend of activities included a 3-3 football match between Farnham & District and Haren, a tennis tournament, swimming gala and a series of social gatherings that led to long-lasting friendships.