A VIP reception was laid on for a visiting dignitary this week as Marlow welcomed an ambassadorial entourage from Hungary.

The Marlow Budavár Twinning Association held a celebration dinner at the Assembly Rooms for guests from the twinned region of Budapest.

As well as exchange students, the association welcomed guest of honour His Excellency Péter Szabadhegy, the Hungarian Ambassador in London, accompanied by Beáta Pászthy, Head of the Hungarian Cultural Centre in London.

Twinning association chairman Roy Cadman said: "It was absolutely brilliant. The Ambassador was charming, you could not have asked for a better speech.

"We were also treated to a demonstration of Morris dancing, and a fabulous meal. All in all it was a thoroughly wonderful evening."

Mr Cadman added that the Ambassador was bowled over by Marlow, calling it "truly a delightful town".

Each year, a student cultural exchange takes place between teenage students from the two areas, inextricably linked by their iconic bridges.

During this year’s visit, the Budavarians had a guided tour of Marlow, a river cruise to Henley, a day at the Henley Show, a visit to Blenheim Palace, and other activities and hospitality with their Marlow hosts.

Marlow has been twinned with Budavár, part of Budapest featuring the maginificent Chain Bridge, since 2007.

As well as Budavar, Marlow has a twinning agreement with Mary-Le-Roi in northern France, where the mayor travels once a year for a civic visit.

Mr Cadman added: "Exchange visits are an important and very enjoyable part of the twinning activities organised by the association. "In September 2015 we will be visiting Budavár as guests of our Hungarian friends."

Visit www.marlow-budavar.info for more information.