Mayor of Hochstadt, Germany, pays special visit to Mayo Peace Park

The newly elected Mayor of Hochstadt, Germany, Alexander Shultz and his wife Heike, have paid an official visit to the Mayo Peace Park and Garden of Remembrance.

Hochstadt is Castlebar’s twin town and this was the Mayor’s first official visit to Mayo's county town.

He was accompanied by Johanna Blum and her husband Bernhard, who are regular visitors to Castlebar.

Members of the peace park committee and representatives of Organisation of National Ex-Service Men and Women were present to welcome the visitors.

Kevin McNally delivered a formal welcome to the group in their native language .

Michael Feeney MBE, former Mayo Person of the Year, also welcomed the distinguished visitors.

He explained the park was a place of reflection for families of Mayo soldiers, sailors, airmen and civilians who died in the world wars and in other conflicts around the world, including those who gave their lives on United Nations peacekeeping operations. The Mayo Peace Park does not glorify war in any manner.

Mayor Alexandor Shullz reponded by stating the long-time friendships created by the twinning is much appreciated in Hochstadt andm after experiencing the warm reception he received during his brief visit, the future of the twinning is secure.

He was delighted to visit the town and can now better understand why it has been such a success. He was delighted to learn about its rich history.

The Mayor and his wife laid wreaths in memory of all who died in the world wars.

Seamus Bourke, representing the ONE, laid a wreath in respect of all the Mayo people who perished because of past wars at home and abroad

The German and Irish anthems were played and the poignant sounds of the Last Post brought proceedings to a conclusion.