French visitors will be treated to British beef as part of a town twinning trip next month - despite the French government's illegal ban on the product.

But Didcot organisers of the visit by dignitaries from Meylan, south-west France, said the controversy would not be allowed to spoil the event.

Terry Joslin, chairman of Didcot's town twinning committee, said: "We are not going to be fazed by the beef issue.

"I am sure the twinning weekend will be a great success - and we don't even expect to discuss the beef ban with our visitors."

He said that as the twinning weekend - November 11 to 14 - was still more than a fortnight away, details of the menu were still under discussion.

But he added: "They can be assured of traditional English hospitality and food including steak and kidney pie, although there will be choices for vegetarians and anyone who does not care for beef."

He said that, during several visits to France to prepare for the twin town link,members of the Didcot twinning committee had thoroughly enjoyed the cuisine and hospitality provided by their hosts.

The formal town twinning link will take place at the Civic Hall on November 13, when the twinning oath will be sworn.

Story date: Wednesday 27 October

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