Barnet welcomed international guests from its twin towns over the weekend as part of a vibrant celebration marking the borough’s 60th anniversary.
Delegates from Barnet’s twin towns — including Montclair (USA), Siegen (Germany), Le Raincy (France), Morphou (Cyprus), and Pokhara (Nepal) — joined local dignitaries for a packed programme that highlighted Barnet’s culture, community spirit, and environmental heritage.
From cultural tours to youth engagement, the weekend reflected Barnet’s enduring international ties and the richness of its local history. Highlights included a tour of Finchley Youth Theatre and a visit to Phoenix Cinema, the UK’s oldest continually running cinema, followed by a walk through Cherry Tree Wood, a cherished site of natural conservation.
Delegates met local Scouts, Cubs, and Beavers during their weekend camp, before enjoying a private visit to the historic Stephen’s House and Gardens in Finchley on Sunday.
A rare photo session brought together past mayors — the first group photo since 1974 — capturing six decades of civic leadership. Another commemorative photo on the Town Hall steps featured delegates and current civic leaders, symbolising the borough’s international friendships.
At the Town Hall, Barnet Archivist Hugh Petrie delivered a special presentation on the borough’s history. Afternoon tea followed, complete with cake cutting and speeches by local leaders, including the Mayor and Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Barnet, Martin Russell MBE.
The celebration concluded with a lively evening in Golders Green, featuring traditional dances by children from Barnet’s Nepalese and Cypriot communities. These performances honoured the borough’s global connections, particularly with Pokhara and Morphou.
The Worshipful the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Tony Vourou, reflected on the occasion:
“The celebrations were an opportunity not only to commemorate six decades of our borough’s rich history, but also to honour the contributions of everyone who has played a vital role in shaping our community. Barnet is a place we are all proud to call home.”
The event highlighted Barnet’s evolution into a diverse and dynamic borough, celebrating its past while embracing the future with open arms.
