A DELEGATION from West Lothian travelled to Texas to sign a formal twinning agreement with Grapevine.
Formal discussions took place with commerce and industry officials, which focussed on enhancing tourism links between both regions, with the aim of providing economic and cultural benefits. Education representatives from both regions held in-depth ta
lks over developing exchange links for pupils, as well as teacher exchange programmes.
During their stay, the West Lothian delegation worked at the world famous Grapefest Community Festival, which attracts more than 300,000 visitors each year, promoting West Lothian to the array of visitors.
Council leader Peter Johnston said: "The trip was a fantastic success. The reception we received was wonderful and we met so many people who were clearly proud of their Scots ancestry and heritage.
"Grapevine is a flourishing region. It is an ideal place to showcase all West Lothian has to offer visitors from around the world and our Visit West Lothian stall was very popular and busy."
Over $3000 was donated to the stall for the West Lothian group to pass to a Mexican orphanage and hospital.
Executive councillor for development and transport, Martyn Day, said: "We hope that our trip to Texas will encourage more people to visit West Lothian."
The full article contains 214 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
