IT was a case of “Bonjour Borehamwood” on Tuesday when a free session was held for people in the area to brush up on their knowledge of the language.

The event at the Ibis Hotel, in Elstree Way, was organised by the Borehamwood and Elstree Twin Town Association (BETTA) who set up language groups last month to teach French and German.

The aim of the association is to form connections with the area's twin towns of Offenburg in south-west Germany near Strasbourg and French town Fontenay-aux-Roses on the outskirts of Paris.

BETTA chairman Martine Eni said: “So far we have had about fifteen people for each session but we want more as it is very important firstly for people to learn more about their twin towns but also to have fun with other members of the community while learning a language.

“The numbers we have had have been very good considering it is the summer holidays and people are away and so far it has been a success.

“The sessions are free and people don’t have to be fluent in the language to attend.”

The association is still looking for help with a classical music evening event to be held in Elstree in September.

It is staging The 3 Divas, which is an evening of classical music and French cuisine.

Guests include sopranos Adria Jackson and Joanna Raworth, mezzo soprano Samantha Rice, pianist Derek Holland and New Zealand harpist Robin Ward, as well as the Borehamwood Brass Band.

Mrs Eni added: “The evening is all organised and a lot of people have given up their time to help us out for free.

“What would be great would be to have some sponsorship from businesses in the area especially to organise more activities such as these language groups.

“The twin town association has laid a little dormant for some time so it is important to re-invigorate it now.”

The 3 Divas event will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at Allum Hall, in Allum Lane, Elstree, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £29 or £50 per couple. For tickets, call 020 8381 5222 or 07717 176869; alternatively, email bettagroup@hotmail.com New members will be entered into a draw with the chance to win a free ticket.

The French session will be held every last Tuesday and the German session will be held every last Thursday of the month at the Ibis Hotel. Both sessions start at 2.30pm and will last approximately two hours.

For more information contact 020 8381 5222.