Eighty six French people will be arriving in Cockermouth this weekend to celebrate 35 years of twinning with the town.

Since 1983 more than 12,000 people - from Cockermouth and Marvejols - have been involved in more than 200 group exchanges between the two towns.

As well as the biennial visits to each town, exchanges have taken place between groups including schools, choirs, sports groups, farmers and musicians.

While Cockermouth now has Marvejols Park, the twin town boasts a Cockermouth roundabout, with a traditional red telephone box, a sign showing the distance to Cockermouth and a display of daffodils.

Gillian Telford, of the twinning group, said: "During the 35 years both towns have received many accolades, including flags and plaques of honour.

"In the year 2000 both towns were awarded the coveted Europe prize by the Council of Europe: the first time that two towns which were actually twinned with one another were jointly awarded the prize.

"Well over 100 students from Cockermouth School have benefitted from the Europe Prize scholarship fund, set up by the Town Council with the prize money and local donations, allowing them to further their studies in Europe."

Last year, 40 Cockermouth people spent six days in France, marking the 34th anniversary of the twinning.

Many of them stayed with host families and were treated to a packed programme. As well as visiting a chateau, museums and the theatre, they enjoyed an anniversary dinner and picnic. Also on offer was cheese-tasting, cookery workshops and boules.

The French visitors, who will be staying for six days with local families, will be taking part in lots of activities, including a tour of Cockermouth Castle and brewery, a civic reception, concerts and daffodil planting.