IN years to come, Bathurst seems set to forge a close and lasting bond with the English city of Cirencester.
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It’s the home town of Lord and Lady Bathurst, who were here earlier this year helping celebrate the city’s bicentenary.
They have clearly developed an affinity with Bathurst, which was named after their forbears, and now local councillor Jess Jennings wants to take that to the next level.
Cr Jennings is presently in the United Kingdom with his partner Kate Smith and young daughter Lola and part of his overseas sojourn has included time with Lord and Lady Bathurst, as well as Cirencester’s civic leaders.
He’s reported back to the Western Advocate from the Old Dart that his talks have been very productive.
“In essence, I’ve been investigating a closer relationship between Bathurst and Cirencester due to the success of our bicentenary celebrations and the visit from Lord and Lady Bathurst and our inseparable historical connections,” Cr Jennings said.
“We met with Lord and Lady Bathurst in their home town and enjoyed afternoon tea at Cirencester Park with them.
“Discussions included the success of their visit to Bathurst and the warm reception they received while they were here to join in the 200 year celebrations. The local mayor Mark Harris was also there because we thought it was important he be included in any talks about Cirencester and Bathurst forging closer ties.”
Cr Jennings said they were given a tour of Cirencester House, including the library, which was a highlight as it included a diary from Captain Phillip.
“There was also a walking tour of the town of Cirencester town and its council chamber,” he said.
“I have reported back to our mayor Gary Rush, general manager David Sherley and fellow councillors about developing closer ties with Cirencester and hopefully we will move to formalise some type of close relationship.”