Croydon has been twinned with Arnhem in the Netherlands since 1985, and since then, the council has sent civic representatives to the annual event to remember the thousands of lives lost in the Battle of Arnhem in 1944. The battle saw Allied paratroopers, including those from Croydon, participate in Operation Market Garden, a daring attempt to liberate the town.
The three-day visit, beginning on Friday 20th September, will see the Civic Mayor represent the borough at key remembrance events. These include a commemoration service at Eusebius Church, followed by a silent walk to the Airborneplein Cemetery to lay a wreath. Over the weekend, they will also attend airborne landing site commemorations and an Airborne Memorial Service at Oosterbeek War Cemetery.
Croydon’s ties with Arnhem date back to 1946 when cultural and business links were established in the aftermath of World War II. Both towns experienced heavy bombing during the war, creating a shared experience that formed the basis for a lasting connection.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said:
“The visit this week by our Civic Mayor is important in forming a key element of civic pride, as it recognises the sacrifices of so many and the rebuilding of our links with Croydon’s twin town of Arnhem.
“That is why I have made sure that these connections are reinstated and that the Civic Mayor will be in Arnhem this year to remember the 80th anniversary.”
