We were delighted to be a part of Stoke-on-Trent’s 35 years of friendship with its twin city Erlangen.
A special event took place at Smithfield in Hanley on 15 October 2025, which saw a cherry tree planted and a new pathway at the Smithfield site officially named Erlangen Way in a tribute to the lasting partnership between the two cities.
The gesture mirrors Erlangen’s existing Stoke-on-Trent Straße, symbolising a shared spirit of friendship and reciprocity.
As part of Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary celebrations, civic representatives from both cities attended, including the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and the leader of the majority party in Erlangen, who travelled to the city to take part in the ceremony.
Councillor Steve Watkins, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, said: “This is a proud moment for our city. As we celebrate 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent and 35 years of friendship with Erlangen, we’re recognising a partnership that has enriched both communities. Erlangen Way and the cherry tree will stand as lasting symbols of our shared values and international friendship.”
Martin Ogiermann, visiting Stoke-on-Trent for the first time, says: “We are deeply honoured to be included in all the festivities around Stoke’s centenary celebrations. As your German friends for 35 years now, we hope the partnership will bloom like the cherry tree we will be planting together.
Community Manager at Smithfield, Adele Simmons said: “We are delighted to be a part of the celebrations and to have Erlangen Way as part of Smithfield, as this signifies not only Stoke-on-Trent’s past and present – but also the future.”
Representatives from Stoke-on-Trent BID and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce also attended the event.