AN EXCITING overseas project has strengthened international relations - here in Halton!

Teenagers from France, Belgium, Holland, Norway, Croatia, Romania and Poland have attended a summer camp hosted by Rotarians.

The youngsters, aged 16-18, were taken on a tour of Liverpool by Widnes Rotary Club and then treated to dinner at the Hillcrest Hotel.

"Summer camp is an enjoyable experience," said Monique, of Slovenia. "I have made many new friends. We have enjoyed England and the people in Rotary have been so kind to us, taking us wherever we wanted to go."

Sam, of Belgium, said: "It has been a good day and it was fantastic to learn so much about the Beatles."

A three-day expedition to the Isle of Man for outward bound activities, team building exercises, visits and camping makes up an action-packed programme.

The two-week gathering brings together young people from all over Europe to foster closer ties, tolerance and give them a chance to learn about other cultures.

Jan Haeck, vice president of Widnes Rotary Club, said: "It has been fantastic. The long-term benefit is the understanding that the campers gain, not just about the north west, but about their new friends from other parts of Europe.

"It shows that Rotarians are involved in many things, across all age groups.

"We are not just a group of middle aged men who meet once a week for a meal and a chat or turn out for the Christmas float."

bjordan@worldgroup.co.uk