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Black Country group goes to Strasbourg

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Category: Awareness

Published on Saturday, 13 November 2010 14:17

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The Black Country group went to Strasbourg to visit the European Parliament and helped raise awareness of fibromyalgia. Below is their report.

Spirits were high when the BCFMSG set off at 6.30am for the 16 hour coach journey to Strasbourg on 15 June.  Plenty of stops, including the ferry trip, ensured that everyone was as comfortable as possible.

The main point of the trip was to visit the European Parliament which was kindly arranged by Mike Nattrass , UKIP MEP since 2004 and his assistant Jill.  Mike has undertaken to raise the awareness and understanding of fibromyalgia in Europe.

Reaching our destination was not straightforward as we were dropped off at the wrong building!  This resulted in a mad dash of about a mile (tricky as you can imagine) to meet Mike and Jill, who were a bit stressed as we nearly missed the deadline!

All was well in the end.  The Parliament was very impressive and we were given a talk on its history as well as a few words of wisdom from Mike.  We then sat in the debating hall (the hemicycle) which can house 736 MEPs, and listened to part of a debate.

So many nationalities are represented at the parliament that all the debates are translated into over 20 different languages.  This is done instantaneously with two people taking turns - one can only imagine the costs of this in terms of just translators!

Back in the medieval city one can see all the wonderful black and white timber framed buildings which are very picturesque, with canals and the river Ille winding between them.  Petite France is a “must visit” district with fabulous restaurants and cafes.

Over the years, ownership of Strasbourg has changed hands between the French and the Germans  but it is now firmly French.  It is the capital of the Alsace region and is situated on the border of France and Germany.

Uppermost on the list of things to do must be to visit the stunning Gothic Cathedral in Strasbourg, with its famous astronomical clock.  It is beautiful both inside and out, and most importantly – free to get in!

Riding on the open mini-tram is one of the easiest ways to see all the sights, with a commentary in English, or a relaxing trip on a river boat.  There is plenty to see and do in this wonderful old city.

Grateful thanks to the organisers for such a wonderful trip.  It was a tonic to all who went – a much needed break from day-to-day life, great company and lots of laughter – which is the best medicine!