More than 80 guests and volunteers gathered in the glorious spring sunshine at Penpont near Brecon for a memorable day of welcome and warmth.
The occasion marking the 10th time Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR) has held its much-loved welcome day at Penpont.
On Sunday, April 27, a coachload of 53 sanctuary seekers from Swansea, along with Ukrainian families living locally, five young people and their support worker from Cardiff, and around 30 HBTSR volunteers, were hosted by Vina and Gavin Hogg in the picturesque setting of Penpont.
The weather proved the best yet for the event, allowing guests to relax in the courtyard, enjoy walks in the gardens, and even paddle in the river - a rare treat after previous years when high waters kept visitors at a distance.
Emily and friends set up quilting outside, but most of the other crafts planned were not needed as the sunshine took over.
From the moment guests arrived, they were treated to warm hospitality, with refreshments of fruit, biscuits and drinks. Volunteer Trevor led the first of two nature walks, taking guests through the walled vegetable garden — a highlight for Hazle from Unity in Diversity, who runs a small gardening club and was eager to gather tips.
As lunchtime approached, a spread of homemade dishes and fresh salads was shared by all, with many guests choosing to eat alfresco in the sun. Generous portions meant there was enough for more than 50 takeaway containers, allowing guests to bring a meal home.
In a new initiative funded by a grant from Bwyd Powys Food, visitors were able to buy freshly harvested organic vegetables grown at Penpont. Lawrence took on the role of shopkeeper, noting down purchases and facilitating payments.
After lunch, Trevor led another walk to Penpont’s maze and historic church, with children happily guiding each other through the winding paths. While the usual football match was a more low-key affair - possibly due to the heat - the horse rides, led by Fiona and her team, remained a firm favourite. Patient and gentle, the horses offered children and adults alike a memorable experience, with queues forming throughout the day.
Later in the afternoon, a feast of cakes was served, followed by a fruit giveaway - made possible again through the Bwyd Powys Food grant. Volunteers packed up fresh fruit and cake so every guest could take a treat home, a thoughtful gesture given the limited access many asylum seekers have to fresh produce.
The day’s success was thanks to the hard work of many, particularly Vina, Jackie and Margaret, whose calm leadership kept the event running smoothly.
Feedback from guests captured the spirit of the day: “Thank you so much for the wonderful day we had. The trip was absolutely amazing, and we truly enjoyed every part of it. The kids especially had an incredible time playing with the horses and participating in all the fun activities you organised - it was such a joy to see their smiles!”