ROCHFORD will celebrate the 25th anniversary anniversary of its link-up with German twin town, Haltern, with a series of events next year.

The Rochford Twinning Association is planning to host families from Germany for a weekend next May as part of a programme of activities to mark the milestone. Rochford District Council is being asked to look at whether twinning events can be incorporated into the Rayleigh Arts Festival, in October, and events being proposed to mark the 200th anniversary of Rayleigh Windmill. In a report to the council’s executive, chief executive Paul Warren is also suggesting the four secondary schools in the district should be informed of the anniversary and asked if they wish to become involved in the celebrations.

Essex Chambers of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses may also be asked if they wish to use the anniversary to promote links with businesses in and around Haltern.

Mr Warren said: “We are already starting to plan a series of events around the 200th anniversary of Rayleigh Windmill, following the receipt of a grant of £32,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“With the planning of the Rayleigh Arts Festival, there could also be reference to the 25th anniversary.

“For example, we could look to promote and display art from the Haltern area and look at German music and literature.

“These activities could be built into the festival, for which there is some funding already available.”