An informal gathering at Woodham Golf Club on Monday 24th April will not only celebrate St George’s Day (albeit a day late) but also the visit to Newcastle of President Carter forty years ago and the formation of “The Friendship Force”. For several years my partner and I have been members of the Friendship Force of Co Durham which has been in existence for thirty years and we have been hosted in Japan, Australia, Canada, France and Cyprus giving us such happy memories of people and places.
Next year we go to Atlanta Georgia for one week then travel to Birmingham, Alabama for a second week and we will be hosting members of the Seattle Club for one week here. Our Friendship Force is amongst many all over the world and is appealing to people who have a desire to see more of the world and appreciate other cultures. We are hosted by people in their homes and in turn we host people from all over the world for either one or two separate weeks a year. Travelling as a group under the umbrella of a Journey CoTravel the World with The Friendship Force ordinator means there is little hassle and those travelling as a single person feel safe.
Great programmes are followed in order to do and see so much in the time available. These Exchanges are not relaxing, but so rewarding. Friendships are made and appreciated. We also have a social calendar with things happening almost every month. The Newcastle Club folded two years ago and it is hoped as the pioneering club, it will be floated again over this celebration time. The celebration in Newcastle will take place on 6th May at The Civic Centre. The Durham Club has only 28 members and as President would like to recruit more members, generally the age range is from 60 years and up. I’d love to hear from anyone interested and perhaps they could join us at Woodham Golf Club on Monday 24th April at 12noon for an introduction to The Friendship Force.
Cynthia Scott 01325 313055
