PARTNERSHIPS between Wrexham and its Polish twin town of Racib rz have been strengthened after a visit by East European delegates to the town.

The visit was the first engagement of a week-long trip by the Silesian Union of Municipalities and Districts (SUMD) to the Welsh Local Government Association and Welsh Local Authorities.

The delegation of 12, led by Dr Ferdynand Morski, executive director of SUMD, was also made up of elected mayors, leaders and chief executives from local authorities across Silesia.

Members of the delegation paid a visit to Wrexham cemetery where they laid a wreath on the Polish War Memorial.

Alan Watkin, chief leisure libraries and culture officer for Wrexham, said: 'We thought it appropriate during the VE day celebrations to lay a wreath at the memorial commemorating the Polish people who died fighting in World War Two.'

The Polish Memorial was built in 1989 and was funded by representatives of Wrexham's Polish community.

Speaking through a translator, J zef Kazik, mayor of Lubliniec, said: 'We are very impressed with our visit. The people have given us a very warm and friendly reception and the hospitality is good.

'We look at everything in a European manner. We came to look, ask and see how successful you are here in Wales.'

Links were forged as delegates learnt about Welsh European funded projects, Welsh local government and potential areas of co-operation.

Both parties also exchanged ideas and practices identifying common problems and obstacles.

Mr Watkin added: 'We are delighted to share our experiences and to learn. We as a council have a duty to bring young people across Wales a better understanding of Europe.'

The Polish delegation also met with Kidz 4 Kidz, who took part in a joint youth project in Racib rz in April, as well as attending the Memorial Centre in Brynteg.