"Timbuktu is a real place - and it needs our help" says Kirsty Williams AM

1.53.49pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 15th Dec 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, is backing ambitious plans for Hay-on-Wye to be twinned with the ancient city of Timbuktu.

Local people in the Welsh town have submitted an impressive bid to be awarded the twinning, and have already beaten stiff competition from other towns and cities across the UK to make the shortlist.

Ms Williams said: "I think the opportunities that would arise from this twinning would be invaluable - for the people of Hay and, perhaps more importantly, for the people of Timbuktu. Both are famed for their historical import, literary and artistic excellence, and inaccessibility! Unlike Hay, however, Timbuktu is located in one of the poorest countries in the world, its people struggling with high infant mortality, and its ancient buildings under constant threat from desert storms.

"I am doing all I can to facilitate this bid. As the only Welsh town left in the competition, I have obtained for the organisers a letter of support from First Minister Rhodri Morgan, and am encouraging all Assembly Members to sign a Statement of Opinion backing the twinning. I sincerely wish Hay-on-Wye every success in their endeavours."

Notes:

Glastonbury, York and Hay-on-Wye have been shortlisted from more than 50 applicants in the hunt to find a UK twin town for Timbuktu. Ali Ould Sidi, head of the Cultural Mission of Timbuktu, will visit all three towns, before choosing a winner early in the New Year.