48th Youth Exchange
Youth Exchange notches up another year
On 25th July Deputy Mayor of Aylesbury, Ranjula Takodra, gave a very warm welcome to a group of German youngsters aged between 11 and 20 from TuS Daun sports club and their English exchange partners who are members of the various youth groups from Aylesbury Methodist Church. This Exchange, believed to be one of the longest-running private exchanges in Europe, is now in its 48th year and visits alternate annually between Germany and England. Current leader Gorden Nickel (pictured here with wife and co-leader Petra Nickel and deputy mayor Ranjula Takodra) took part in the Exchange himself as a teenager and has very fond memories of his visits to Aylesbury. Now, over twenty years later, Gorden’s own children and those of his exchange partners are taking part themselves!
The German group comes from the town of Daun in the picturesque Eifel area near the Luxembourg border, a region known for its volcanic lakes and spectacular scenery. Over the years a deep and lasting friendship has developed between the two communities and many English and German youngsters have had the opportunity to experience life in another country as well as to improve their language skills. Although the participants pay towards the Exchange it has been the generous support of local and church charities which has allowed it to continue over so many years.
The programme this year has included visits to Warwick Castle and Stratford, Hampton Court and London’s as well as workshops at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, a guided tour of Bletchley Park and a shopping expedition to Milton Keynes.
Further information about the Exchange can be obtained from English Exchange leaders, Steve and Vivienne Kemp c/o Aylesbury Methodist Church, Buckingham Street or amc.admin@tiscali.co.uk