DELEGATES from Offerton Park Parish Council are looking forward to visiting Dodge City next week, and hoping to make a posse of new friends.

Representatives from the Offerton Parish Council jet off to the American city on April 3 in a bid to build closer relationships with the famous ‘cattle’ town.

The historic link between Offerton and Dodge City are strong, William Dodge left Offerton in 1629 and together with the help of his relatives went on to found Dodge City.

Parish clerk, Craig Ainsworth, and deputy clerk Damian Eaton will be keeping a blog of their experience in Dodge.

Craig says he is really excited about the trip and can’t wait to get well and truly stuck in to the cowboy way of life.

"Offerton has a unique relationship with Dodge City and it’s amazing that we can support the Friendship Agreement made by the city and Stockport council in 2001, identify the joint initiatives that will benefit both towns and ultimately celebrate the historic link between the two communities."

Dodge City manager, Ken Strobel said: "An increased connection with Stockport would be an excellent idea."

The Parish Council has provided financial support for Councillor Keith Ryan, and Damian Eaton to make the visit to Dodge City. The head of business at Offerton School, Jennifer Faricy, will also join the delegation as a representative of the young people of Offerton.