Members?of the Ross-on-Wye branch of the Ross and Conde Twinning Association were very sad to receive the news of the death of Monsieur Hubert Laurent. He died of a heart attack while on holiday in the south of France. Members of the Ross Association attended his funeral on August 19th.

Hubert was involved from the beginning of the twinning between the two town. He participated in discussions and visits that led to the formation of the Twinning Association between Ross-on-Wye and Conde-sur-Noireau in Normandy.

The charter was signed in October 1978 and Hubert became the first President for Conde, a role he retained for more than 20 years. Hubert and the Mayor of Conde at the time were the signatories, together with the Mayor of Ross and the first chairman in Ross.

During the 38 years since, many people from Ross have enjoyed the very special experience that visiting Conde with the Twinning Association has brought. Accommodation is always in the home of another family. Hubert last visited Ross with his wife, Edith, in April 2016 and remained an active member until his death.

Hubert was a very special man. He had an unusually wise attitude to all aspects of life. He was willing to discuss or advise, expressing his opinion in a very considered way. He remained serious when appropriate but always retained his youthful sense of humour.

He will be missed by all members past and present.