East Dunbartonshire's Provost, Alan Brown welcomed a group of young people from Bavaria to the Council HQ this summer as part of a Youth Exchange organised by Operation Friendship Scotland.
The eight visitors were staying with young people from Holy Family Primary and St Ninian's High Schools in their family homes and made the trip to the Council offices to enjoy a civic reception and have commemorative photographs taken.
Provost Brown was delighted to meet his Bavarian guests and their local hosts and said, "This exchange visit offers these young people an invaluable insight into different cultures and gives them real life experiences with the chance to make memories and friendships for life. I was delighted to host a small reception in their honour and hear all about their travels and plans for the future."
During their two week stay in East Dunbartonshire the group explored the many attractions on their doorstep including the Auld Kirk Museum in Kirkintilloch, which they all thoroughly enjoyed.
Peter Martin is a Youth Leader with Operation Friendship HFSN (Holy Family & St Ninian's). He said, "Our aim is to foster international friendships and understanding of the social, educational, religious, and secular heritage of participating countries. Some local young people went to Bavaria last year and we were delighted to return the favour and welcome them to Scotland."
Nicole Rockinger is a Youth Leader with the Bavarian Group. She added, "I'd like to thank all our Scottish hosts for their most generous welcome. The trip was a huge success and we have come away with a love of all things Scottish and a commitment to maintain and build on the relationships we have made."
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