COMMEMORATIVE trees were planted in an east Durham town to mark a long-standing link with a German community.

Seaham and Gerlingen forged their friendship with a ceremony in the Town Park.

Trees were planted by the Mayor and Mayoress of Seaham, Councillor Ronnie and Mrs Sylvia Meir.

Other saplings were planted by the leader of Seaham Town Council, Councillor Eddie Mason, and the chairman of the twinning committee, Councillor Alan Johnson. Also taking part were local church leaders and Burgermeister of Gerlingen, Georg Brenner.

The planting coincided with a visit by 56 Germans to host families in Seaham