Delegation from the Far East come to Castle Bromwich

VISIT: Xu Fangzhong, from Changzhou,
Mayor of Solihull, Coun Flo Nash, and
 Coun Bob Sleigh planting the tree

VISITORS from Solihull's twin city, thousands of miles away, recently stopped at Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel.
A delegation from Changzhou, in China, spent two days touring some of the borough's sights.
Their whistle-stop tour earlier this month was organised to help cement the relationship between the two communities, which first linked up in 2016.
Aside from a visit to the Hall Gardens, the group paid a trip to the historic village of Berkswell and took part in a tree planting ceremony in Malvern Park.
The city, which has a population of around 12 million, dwarfs the borough. But there are similarities between the communities, with both known for their motor manufacturing and Changzhou having a high-speed rail line.
Councillor Bob Sleigh, Leader of Solihull Council, said "We have economic strengths and opportunities in common. Strengths in automotive and aerospace, rail and financial services.
"Changzhou is ranked as one of the most liveable cities in China and Solihull has been ranked as the best place to live in this country."
It is hoped that the visit will encourage greater tourism and business links between the borough and China.
Solihull Council has made no secret of the fact that it sees major economic opportunities in encouraging more visitors to the borough.
Indeed, earlier this year a new cabinet post was created which has specific responsibility for boosting Solihull's profile around the country and overseas.
Mayor of Solihull, Coun Flo Nash, said: "It is marvellous that Solihull has links all over the world."