THE mayor of Wellington is set to jet off on a council-funded trip to attend an event in its twin town.

Wellington's twin town of Torres Vedras, in Portugal, holds an 'internationally-recognised' carnival at the end of February each year.

Previous mayors have been invited in the past but the invitation was never received in time to make the trip possible.

But this year, with some added organisation, cllr Janet Lloyd is set to represent Wellington in its twin town.

Wellington Town Council agreed to fund the £361.94 for airfare for a return trip for Cllr Lloyd and her consort.

Due to the official nature of the visit, the council also agreed to fund airport transfers, and a gift to give to Torres Vedras' representatives.

Cllr Mark Lithgow said: "The carnival is a week-long internationally-recognised event.

"It makes Bridgwater Carnival look mediocre.

"They have made the offer time and time again.

"I recommend we support the mayor to go."

Cllr John Thorne added: "The recommendation was very specific that we should fund airfare, airport transfers and a gift as it is an official visit."

Cllr Lithgow added the mayor's attendance is unlikely to be a yearly event.

Last year, representative's from Wellington Carnival visited Torres Vedras to take part in the iconic event.

The Wellington party was also joined in Portugal by La Rochal Twirl majorettes from France, a troupe which has previously attended the town's carnival.