When you’re out and about in Harrow you will no doubt have come across the odd sign declaring that our borough is twinned with Douai and, in this article, we’re saying bonjour to this charming French city.
What are twin towns?
Twin towns are towns or cities in two different countries which have been chosen as a pair to encourage cultural and social links between the two countries. In many instances, the towns are chosen because they share a similar size or have similar characteristics but this is not always the case.
Harrow was twinned with Douai in France in 1979 after Harrow’s Deputy Mayor, Freddie Sellers, decided that it would be beneficial for our borough to make a connection with our European neighbours. Douai was chosen to be our twin and, in May 1979, twinning ceremonies were held on both sides of the channel.
Delightful Douai
Set in northern France, in between Lille and Cambrai, Douai has a population of
39,989 people and is a popular destination for tourists. The centre of the town is dominated by the Place d’Armes – a picturesque pedestrianised square featuring lots of trees and a central fountain.
Architecture in the region ranges from traditional 18th century French style to Flemish tones and art deco touches. One of the town’s main attractions is the 15th century belfry which boasts 62 bells, four small towers and a stunning Gothic spire – a structure which Victor Hugo was inspired to call ‘the most beautiful belfry in France’. While magnificent during the day, the belfry is uber-grammable during twilight and nighttime.
Riverside chic
Water lovers will be inspired by the Scarpe region of Douai – an extremely pretty waterfront area featuring working docks and the famous Parliament of Flanders building. Visitors to the area can enjoy boat trips through the town along the River Scarpe.
Douai is also known as the City of Giants (Ville de Geants) due to its summer festival in which giant figures representing the Gayant family are paraded through the town.
Each year, the Mayor of Harrow visits Douai where he or she meets with his or her counterpart in this delightful city.
Nicci, born in Cumbria in 1971, moved to London at 17 to work for Mute Records. She has a diverse career spanning design, copywriting, and PR. Nicci is an author, freelance copywriter, and PR professional, with her own agency, Front Page Promotions. She covers historical stories for Harrow Online and has authored several books. She currently resides in Harrow, North West London
