The official twinning of Wigan and the Loire Valley city took place in 1988, with the arrangement starting informally several years earlier.
We have looked through Wigan Today’s archives for a selection of photographs relating to the twin towns from over the years.
29. A look back over the years since Wigan was twinned with French town Angers
French visitors from Angers were treated to a guided tour of Wigan's heritage at the History Shop, courtesy of Philip Butler, left Photo: Paul Greenwood
30. A look back over the years since Wigan was twinned with French town Angers
The Mayor's attendant Harold Lowe shows Bitaille Benjamin, 14, along with fellow exchange students from College La Madeleine, in Angers, the robes at Wigan Town Hall Photo: Nick Fairhurst
31. A look back over the years since Wigan was twinned with French town Angers
French ambassador Emanuelle Thomas with pupils at Woodfold Primary School in Standish Photo: Paul Simpson
32. A look back over the years since Wigan was twinned with French town Angers
Ambassadress Sandrine Leiber leaves for home in Angers after 12 months in Wigan Photo: John Leatherbarrow