Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing has highlighted the "wonderful connections" established between Epping and the German town of Eppingen as the two communities celebrate 40 years of town twinning.
A reception at Epping Hall on Saturday morning included speeches, a cake cutting and exchange of gifts, with music provided by Epping Forest Band.
Dame Eleanor, who gave her speech in German, praised the links established between the towns over the past four decades.
Dame Eleanor said: "I'm absolutely delighted to help celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Epping-Eppingen Twinning Association and the wonderful connections that have been created between the two towns.
"On behalf of the whole community I'd like to thank everyone who has worked so hard, not just to put this weekend's celebrations together but to keep this very important link running with such enthusiasm for all these decades.
"It's really important that we maintain our friendships and celebrate all that we have in common in our communities."
The weekend of celebrations included an anniversary dinner at Epping Hall on Saturday evening.
