Llangynidr celebrated its fifth Refugee Welcome Day recently with a day of food, fun, and friendship, attended by around 150 people, including 49 guests seeking sanctuary.

Hosted by the village community in collaboration with Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR), the event featured a wide range of activities for all ages. Guests enjoyed apple pressing, clay modelling, kite flying, and a conker championship. Children also took part in crafts, making animals, pom-poms, and beaded bracelets, while newcomers were introduced to croquet and football.

A highlight of the day was the first-ever on-site book launch, with children’s author Catherine Barr reading from her new title, The Colours of Nature. Thanks to a record-breaking apple harvest, guests could pick fruit from nearby orchards, while Gil and Pip Chambers, aided by Tim Epping, pressed fresh juice for everyone to enjoy. Ready-made juice was kindly provided by Lynne Allbutt.

Live music from the Hallelujah Joes and a warm welcome from the Llangynidr School Choir set a celebratory tone. Dozens of local volunteers helped with games, floral arrangements, and an exceptional feast, donated by local pubs, cafés, and families. A curry cooked in the early hours ensured no one went hungry, and massage therapist Yolanda offered head-and-shoulder massages throughout the day – a service especially appreciated by many women guests.

Co-organiser Lucy Lancaster added: “I witnessed so many moments of beauty and generosity - given with love, humour and hard work. It was a day I’ll never forget.”

HBTSR Secretary Ailsa Dunn said: “It was wonderful to reconnect with old friends and welcome new ones. The spirit of kindness and collaboration was everywhere - a beautiful reminder of what community really means.”

The event was supported in part by Bwyd Powys Food, which helped fund local produce and transport for guests.

For more information, visit: https://hbtsr.cityofsanctuary.org/