A recent community welcome day in Llangorse brought together asylum-seeking families and local volunteers for a day of activities, despite travel disruption and poor weather.

The event took place at Llangorse Community Centre on Sunday, March 29, and was organised by Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR). Ruth and Carlos led the event from Swansea, with significant behind-the-scenes support from Thanu. On the ground, coordination was handled by Melrose East and Ailsa Dunn.

More than 50 people attended, including 27 children and teenagers and 30 adults, alongside three young Sudanese men attending with their Cardiff-based foster parent. Families travelled from Swansea but were delayed after their bus broke down, requiring a replacement vehicle before they could continue their journey.

Once in Llangorse, the group took part in a programme of activities for children and adults alike, led by volunteers. Willow craft was led by Heather and Matthew, clay modelling by Sue Bidmead, Nadia Epping and Eden Duffy, and face painting with colourful hair extensions and headpieces was run by Claire Elliot and Michele. The Llangorse ukulele band provided a live performance, encouraging audience participation.

Two guided walks were organised. Rob, Ruth, Wally and Gareth led one group to St Paulinus’ Church, where Muslim participants were able to observe midday prayers, and another to Ellesmere Riding Centre and the lakeside, offering opportunities to see animals and local heritage features, including a reconstructed roundhouse and views of the crannog.

Attendees came from a wide range of countries, including Venezuela, El Salvador, Cameroon, Colombia, Bolivia, Botswana, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Albania, the Northern Caucasus, Honduras, Malaysia and India.

Food was a central part of the day, with volunteers providing hot meals, fresh bread from local bakery Pobl, salads, fruit, cakes, and takeaway provisions. Many families were able to take home additional food, kitchenware, clothing, books and toys. Resources for ongoing children’s activities, including games and yoga mats, were also sent for use in a Swansea-based drop-in group supporting young people seeking sanctuary.

Despite cold and rainy conditions, organisers said the day was well attended and participants engaged fully with the activities.

Feedback from participants highlighted the impact of the event. One attendee said: “I am grateful for your kindness, the wonderful concert, the delicious food, the hospitality and the warmth. It brought back fond memories of my home country.” Another commented: “Everything was truly amazing. Your kindness and effort made the whole experience very special and memorable.”

More than 45 local volunteers helped prepare and serve food, run activities, tidy up and chat with participants.

Organisers said the event demonstrated the power of community collaboration in creating inclusive, supportive spaces for people seeking sanctuary, offering not only practical support but also a sense of belonging and connection.

HBTSR have thanked all those involved with the day who helped to make it a success.

For more information about HBTSR and its activities, you can email them at [email protected] or visit their website at: https://hbtsr.cityofsanctuary.org/