A Mansfield group that was set up in 1989 to promote close links between its 40 namesakes all over the world has closed.

To mark the end of an era, Mansfield Sister Cities Association (SCA) has presented cheques to two choirs based in the town, which were long-time supporters of the group.

The association helped create many international contacts, both personal and business.

Mansfield, UK, benefited from its sister city relationship with Mansfield, Ohio, in the US through the establishment of D.A.R.E. — a schools drug abuse resistance education programme — business networking group Mansfield 2020, Mansfield Rotary Courage Awards, Miss Mansfield and Sherwood Forest exchanges, and youth mayor exchanges.

Stewart Rickersey, chairman of Mansfield SCA, said: “Obviously it is very sad to see the association close, but it can be very proud of bringing D.A.R.E. to the UK, and Mansfield 2010 (later called Mansfield 2020) was created off the back of REDEC in Ohio.

“There was 100% agreement that our surplus of funds would be shared between Mansfield and District Male Voice Choir and Cantamus girls’ choir.”

Stewart is pictured top (right) presenting a cheque to Geoff Hursthouse, chairman of Mansfield and District Male Voice Choir.

Below, he is with Ann Irons, director / vocal tutor at Cantamus, after she received a cheque.