Town Twinning Cairn Rededicated for 80th Anniversary

The rededication ceremony formed part of the wider 80th anniversary celebrations and brought together the visiting Flekkefjord delegation, Burntisland representatives, local families and residents, and all those taking part in the 2026 twinning exchange.

Deputy Provost Dave Dempsey and the Mayor of Flekkefjord, Torbjørn Klungland, officially unveiled a new commemorative plaque at the cairn - which has a special connection to Flekkefjord. It was built using stone brought from the Norwegian town, of a type commonly found in the Flekkefjord area. It therefore stands as a physical symbol of the lasting link between the two communities.

At the same time, Jan Sigbjørnsen and Cllr George Kay unveiled a new information board telling the story of the twinning link and the friendship that has developed between Burntisland and Flekkefjord over the past 80 years. George has been involved in supporting and helping to sustain the twinning for almost 30 years.

Speeches were given by Burntisland Town Twinning Chair Mark Kisby and Mayor Torbjørn Klungland. Both thanked everyone who has contributed their time, work and commitment to the twinning and to the lasting friendship between the two towns.

They reflected on the importance of establishing the link in 1946, in the years immediately following the Second World War, and on how valuable the initiative remains today. Through the continuing youth exchange, young people are given opportunities to broaden their horizons, build friendships and develop greater understanding of other cultures. These connections continue to support the original aims of fostering friendship and promoting peace.

Music was provided by Zander Mulholland and Isabella Bradshaw, who played bagpipes and drums to mark the occasion.

All of the 2026 twinners were present at the ceremony and joined representatives and guests for photographs following the unveiling. Refreshments were then served at the Burntisland Sands Hotel, giving guests further time to meet, share memories and celebrate the enduring relationship between the two communities.

The new plaque reads:

This plaque marks 80 years of the twinning link between Burntisland and Flekkefjord in Norway.

Nurturing young people, bridging cultures, and promoting peace through friendship and understanding.

Støtte ungdom, bygge broer mellom kulturer og fremme fred gjennom vennskap og forståelse.

July 2026

The rededication celebrated not only the history of the twinning link, but also the many volunteers, host families, community representatives and young people who have helped to keep it active and meaningful across eight decades.

Photos kindly provided by Garry Irvine