Dignitaries from Wisbech and Arles met today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of twinning between the two towns.

Cambs Times: Presentation to Arles Twinning Club president at the Wisbech Town Council chamber. Picture: Steve Williams.Presentation to Arles Twinning Club president at the Wisbech Town Council chamber. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Guests included Arles Twinning Association president Jean-Claude Marchesseau and photographer Patrick Urvoy, who is holding a photographic exhibition in the Wisbech and Fenland Museum as part of the Wisbech Arts Festival.

Cambs Times: Presentation to Arles Twinning Club president at the Wisbech Town Council chamber. Mayor Samantha Hoy with the gifts from Arles. Picture: Steve Williams.Presentation to Arles Twinning Club president at the Wisbech Town Council chamber. Mayor Samantha Hoy with the gifts from Arles. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

An Arles and Provence exhibition is also being staged at the Boathouse’s Mac Cotterell Gallery until May 23.

The French contingent did not come empty handed - they brought along a selection of culinary delights for Wisbech Mayor Councillor Sam Hoy.

A series of events have been held this year to mark the landmark anniversary including, earlier this month, a rugby match between Wisbech Grammar School and Arles-Tarascon Club de Rugby, which the English side won 45-0.

Arles is famous for its Roman amphitheatre and was briefly Vincent van Gogh’s home - the artist produced more than 300 paintings and drawings during his time there.

It also hosts “Rencontres D’Arles”, an annual international photography festival.