Bristol Hannover Council

** In early July we had an unusual visit initiated by our good friend Detlev Oelfke, who conducted Hannover’s Big Band at Bristol Zoo on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the twinning partnership, and for many years played a key role singing in Hannover’s Canta Nova, which made several visits to Bristol, mainly partnered with the Westbury Singers, conducted by the late Paul Seath.

Detlev spent some time studying law at the University of Virginia (UVA), and on this occasion was tasked with arranging the latest reunion of its Alumni Association (European Chapter), but since the group had recently met in Germany, Detlev decided to stage the reunion in Hannover’s twin city, Bristol.

UVA Alumni in the Hotel du Vin – Right: Detlev Oelfke, Centre: Gabi Ciecior, former Head of Cultural Office, Hannover City Council

The group was truly international, with representatives from UVA, but also Sweden, Belgium and Scotland, as well as Germany of course. It proved too difficult to arrange their usual academic law lecture at this time of year but the group had an excellent tour of Bristol, led by our good friend Liz Gamlin, Chair of the Porto link and blue badge guide.

They also visited Bath, and had an official dinner in the traditional surroundings of the Hotel du Vin. Before they left, there was a Meeting of Alumni Association Members, culminating in a plan to visit Leuven in Belgium for their next Reunion in 2027.

ANN KENNARD

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