On a wet and windy Friday night, alumni of Bury Grammar School struggled through Storm Claudia to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Bury-Cologne Exchange. Alumni from as far back as 1955 gathered to acknowledge and honour the remarkable vision of Dr Arnold Meier. The exchange, which started life as a football match, was intended as an opportunity for reconciliation, to bring two countries together and to foster friendships. Nowadays, the exchange is a hugely popular opportunity for students to experience a different culture and learn a new language. The football match continues, but with far less mud and competition. A British afternoon tea alongside cakes with a German flavour was enjoyed whilst guests viewed displays in the library and archive room, with many alumni struggling to recognise their younger selves.

Jon Meier spoke movingly about the legacy his father has left. You can read the full transcript of his speech here:

German Exchange Anniversary Speech - Jon Meier

You can view the photographs from the event here:

70th Anniversary Bury-Cologne Exchange - Photo Gallery        

You can view the news story about the 2025 students who have just returned from Cologne here:

Celebrating 70 Years of the Bury Cologne Exchange 

Click here to see a slide show of photographs from Exchanges over the years:

Bury-Cologne Through the Ages