RESEARCH into the history of their American town led a group of Americans thousands of miles – to Ombersley.

A group of residents from Sandisfield travelled to the village in July after discovering it had played a part in the naming of their town.

In 1762 the residents of a small town in Massachusetts decided to name it after the first Lord Sandys, who was then Minister for the Colonies and Plantations.

In 2012 it celebrated its 250th anniversary and, as part of the celebrations, a group of history enthusiasts began to compile a history of the town.

During their research they found the seat of the Sandys family was in Ombersley and decided to make contact with the parish.

Wychavon District Council member for Ombersley Cllr Peter Tomlinson said: “This is a remarkable and fascinating link between two communities that are thousands of miles apart.

“Despite the distance there are many similarities between Ombersley and Sandisfield – our agricultural surroundings, thriving local businesses and always a welcoming hand to visitors.”

Founder of The Sandisfield Times Ron Bernard said one of the highlights of the visit was a tour of the grounds of Ombersley Court by permission of the dowager Lady Sandys.

“It was a privilege for us as well as our hosts, some of whom had never been invited to the court.

“Lady Sandys later expressed how pleased she was that the visit might lead to a lasting association.”

For more information on Sandisfield visit www.sandisfield.info.