TOWN twinners in east Durham hope to strengthen their friendship with their German partners this year.

Last year, Easington celebrated 25 years of its link with Baesweiler, a pit town in northern Germany, which is home to 25,000 people.

Now, two trips to the town are planned this year, both of them timed to coincide with major events.

The first is from Wednesday, February 21, to Thursday, March 1, and will coincide with Baesweiler's Karnival festival.

The town's Kirmes festival will be staged when another visit to Germany has been arranged. This is from Thursday, June 7 to Monday, June 16.

An Easington District Council spokeswoman said: "Easington and Baesweiler signed a twinning agreement on April 9, 1975, and a string of celebrations was held to commemorate the 25th anniversary last year.

"Like Easington, Baesweiler has endured its share of pit closures, though it was not hit so badly.

"Now, 25,000 people live in the town and its population is on the increase as more private investment and housing is developed.

"East Durham has left its mark on Baesweiler and there is even an Easington Strasse.''

Further details about the trips are available on 0191-527 0501, extension 2428.