Provost Bert Thomson welcomed visitors from the French town to mark more than 30 years since the twinning arrangement was first agreed.

Among those in attendance was Brigiette Courtois, President of the Chatelherault Twinning Association and Tom Welsh, President of the Hamilton Twinning Association.

Provost Thomson said: “It was great to extend a warm welcome to our visitors from Chatelherault, as well as representatives from the Hamilton Twinning Association.

“These meetings continue a tradition of exchanges that have been going on for more than 30 years since the two towns twinned.

“Twinning is a fantastic way to bring cultures together, allowing traditions and everyday life to be shared and learned from.

“By bringing communities together through exchange trips and other events, our two towns have, over the years, been able to increase our understanding of each of our countries ways of doing things, both socially and through boosting tourism and supporting local businesses.”

Provost Thomson presented both Presidents with a small gift to mark the visit to South Lanarkshire Council's HQ in Hamilton.