Felixstowe Town Council was honoured to host a civic delegation from its twin town, Wesel, Germany, from 25 to 28 April 2025. This visit marked the continued celebration of a longstanding and valued international friendship, first established in 1974 when Felixstowe and Wesel were formally twinned. Over the past five decades, this unique relationship has fostered mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and civic cooperation between the two communities.
The visiting delegation, led by Bürgermeisterin Ulrike Westkamp, took part in a varied and engaging civic programme organised by Felixstowe Town Council, with support from the Felixstowe Wesel Association.
The itinerary commenced with the 2025 Mayor’s Ball on Friday 25 April, hosted at the award-winning Sea You restaurant on Felixstowe’s South Seafront. Guests were treated to a three-course meal and live entertainment from Asha Louise and local band Rude and Reckless. Proceeds from the evening will support the Mayor of Felixstowe’s nominated charities for the civic year 2024–2025: Breast Friends CIC and The Landguard Trust.
On Saturday 26 April, a Civic Reception was held at Felixstowe Town Hall to mark a significant milestone—20 years of dedicated service by Bürgermeisterin Ulrike Westkamp. The Mayor of Felixstowe, Councillor David Rowe, formally welcomed the delegation and paid tribute to Bürgermeisterin Westkamp’s longstanding commitment to international civic engagement. As a symbol of the enduring partnership between the two towns, civic gifts were exchanged. The occasion was further enriched by the attendance of twelve former Mayors of Felixstowe, reflecting the depth and continuity of the towns’ shared history.
On Monday 28 April, the delegation travelled to London for a tour of the Houses of Parliament, kindly facilitated by Suffolk Coastal MP Jenny Riddell Carpenter. The visit provided an opportunity to gain insight into the workings of UK parliamentary democracy and further reinforced the spirit of international cooperation.
Throughout the weekend, the delegation also took part in a series of cultural and recreational activities arranged by the Felixstowe Wesel Association. These included a guided tour of Felixstowe Museum and a scenic bike ride along the Suffolk coastline with members of Felixstowe Town Council.
The visit highlighted the strength of the Felixstowe-Wesel connection and reaffirmed the commitment of both towns to continuing this valuable international partnership for future generations.