Report on the Annual Exchange between Ware and Wülfrath Swimming Clubs, April 2025
Wonderful support and winning ways in Wulfrath
Last month, in April just before Easter, Ware SC headed over to Wulfrath for the traditional bi-annual Exchange visit between the two swimming clubs. With a later than usual departure time of 8am, the team eagerly awaited the new ferry crossing from Dover to Dunkirk. Although slightly longer than the crossing to Calais, it was a much better experience, the only downside being the later arrival in Wulfrath.
The first day was spent at Phantasialand, a firm favourite with swimmers of all ages. With a mix of exhilarating rides, virtual reality experiences and the traditional shows, it was an action-packed day and everyone had a great time.
The next day, Ware SC were readyfor the highlight of the week – a friendly and competitive gala with TB Wulfrath. After the morning training session, spirits were high, and it was evident that there would be some excellent racing ahead. The atmosphere at the gala was electric with lots of support for both teams and some amazing performances, especially in the relays. Every race was fiercely contested with swimmers fighting hard to secure points in one of the closest galas for many years. Ware SC were victorious with some exceptional performances that included 23 personal bests and a couple of club records too! After the traditional celebrations at the pool, both teams enjoyed a delicious pasta meal with a fun pop quiz and disco too!
The following day was spent in the historic city of Cologne with a visit to the beautiful cathedral as well as a journey back in time on a new virtual reality train. Many of the swimmers took advantage of the lovely spring weather and had lunch by the river before visiting one of the best ice-cream stalls in the market square, with an amazing choice of flavours to suit every palate. The afternoon was spent shopping with many of the swimmers purchasing multiple outfits to ensure they had plenty of options for the gala dinner on the last night! With a free evening with their host families, the swimmers had time to relax and unwind, whilst the adults had the opportunity to visit a local brewery that was formerly a swimming pool – a wonderful venue with amazing beer and delicious food.
On Wednesday, TB Wulfrath had arranged a visit to the nearby Oberhausen and Oceanarium. It was a great opportunity to learn about the animals in the ocean, watch interactive displays and walk to the top of the exhibit for breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. The swimmers then headed off to Westfield for some more retail therapy before returning to their host families to get ready for the gala dinner. This was a fantastic evening – great food, wonderful entertainment from TB Wulfrath and of course, the all- important drinking competition. Victory in the wine and beer race was always going to be tough for Ware SC and this year was no exception with TB Wulfrath achieving emphatic wins in both events. The youngsters from Ware SC were optimistic and keen to retain their trophy, but sadly they were outdone by a very competitive group from TB Wulfrath. Both teams celebrated their victories in style with the disco and dancing in full swing until the early hours of the morning. It was a fantastic evening and a wonderful ending to another amazing week in Wulfrath.
Due to the amended ferry crossing, the departure from Wulfrath was later than in previous years. After many hugs, kisses and lots of tears, Ware SC finally boarded the coach to return to Ware in time for the Easter weekend. New friendships and lifelong memories had been created throughout the week – all the swimmers had a brilliant time and are excited to host TB Wulfrath in Ware in 2026.
Since returning, the team from Ware SC has continued their fundraising efforts to reopen Fanshawe Pool. TB Wülfrath has shown exceptional support and provided an extremely generous contribution to the campaign. The relationship between Ware and Wülfrath Swimming Clubs has shaped lives – lifelong friendships have been established and memories made. Next year, Ware SC will welcome swimmers from Wülfrath and it is very much hoped that the gala will be able to take place in a newly reopened pool.
Club Chair, Adrian Bolton said, “I’m very grateful to our friends at TB Wulfrath for their unwavering support and incredibly generous donation to our campaign. We look forward to hosting them in 2026 for another memorable and exciting Exchange visit.”
Nicola Rix, Secretary, Ware Swimming Club
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On 4 May Wülfrath hosted a Frülingsfest (Spring Festival) to showcase its twin towns of Ware and Bondues (France) to the citizens of Wülfrath.
Seven members of Ware Town Twinning travelled to Wulfrath to take part – Phyllis Ballam, Chairman of the Committee, Chris and Peter Smith, Joint Secretaries of the Association, Ros Standley, Vice-Chairman of the Committee with her husband Mick, and Janet and Barry Parkin. The Ware contingent included the Ware Town Crier (with bell) aka Barry Parkin and a Beadle aka Pete Smith – both in full regalia. Ware offered tastings of sausage rolls, cheddar cheese, shortbread, hot cross buns, and Battenburg cake (although German in name, a very British cake) and Pimms punch. There was a display board featuring the gazebos, the Priory etc. and information on the history of twinning between the two towns. Typical pub activities such as darts, dominoes and bar skittles were demonstrated.
The French contingent demonstrated boules, and provided pate and red wine. Wülfrath provided musical entertainment and coffee and cake. A fun afternoon! Something to think about for Ware, maybe?
Ware Town Twinning Association 