The weather forecast had been troubling all week but the reality was warm sunshine and lots of happy people. This was another event with many local people involved in welcoming people seeking sanctuary in Swansea. Some of the local people included  Ukrainian families and  also others who had personal experiences of displacement. This made for an inclusive, friendly and fun day. The countries represented were Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, Tunisia, Syria, Albania, Pakistan, Iran, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan.  Some who made the journey had only recently arrived in Swansea, most had not been on a day out of Swansea before and a few knew what to expect and were not disappointed!

Vova the panda with new friend, and volunteers chatting

People were welcomed by a giant  Ukrainian panda  and after drinks and snacks,many  headed off for one of two walks [ woodland or canal] . Those left behind were not short of activities to keep them busy.  There was a play pen with toys for younger children and crafting workshop  with air drying clay with Lena and  Maryna. Outside face painting, Swift stencilling, colouring and weaving of Swifts  was available. In addition the basketball pitches, the football posts, the cricket pitch and extensive play equipment were all made use of and much enjoyed.

photos from the canal walk .

The walkers returned in time for a delicious lunch with plenty to chat about. Details about the canal, the tram road, the Alpacas, Henry Vaughan and the community orchards were exchanged whilst enjoying the wonderful savoury delights and fruits

lunch and some of the craft activities available.

Then the children’s sports took over ending with tug of wars between children with adults assisting! An enormous selection of cake and fruit greeted the sports watchers on returning to the hall with plenty to take away for enjoying over the next week. There was even enough cake  to send back with Maria for the drop in support groups who do a great job in feeding upwards of 140 people a week but don’t usually have the luxury of home made cake and certainly not the wide variety available in Talybont.

Tired but very happy people left with Darren the friendly bus driver who had ensured a scenic journey to Talybont and was prepared to take a quicker route back, dropping a few people  near to their homes on the way.

Thanks are due to

Rhiannon Davies for coordination, planning and organising the whole event,

those from HBTSR who were able to be there or donate food.

Henderson Hall committee members

The many residents of the Talybont community who gave their time, energy and food contributions

The White Hart Inn, Talybont

Talybont Store and Post Office

Maryna and Lena, Ukrainian refugees living locally, for their craft workshops

Ruth, Matt  and Heather representing Brecon Frazz parade for their willow making and printing Swift workshops

Lost the Plot food contributors

Mely’s Spanish class ladies

Morgan and Jacob Florence

Vova and the Giant Panda representing Hugs for Ukraine

Jenny Merrill for her very generous donation

Beacons Benefice

Anna Bell for Face painting

Talybont WI members

Jane Durrant for loan of play equipment

Chas, Gilestone Gardens, Talybont.

Thanks from Swansea

Hello, good time. Today’s trip was great. Thank you to all the loved ones who worked hard for this trip.

I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to you for your wonderful and distinguished efforts in organizing your trips. I had the honor to be part of one of your trips, and I was amazed by the professionalism and meticulous organization you demonstrated in every detail. You not only provide unique tourism experiences, but also contribute to enhancing the spirit of adventure and exploration among individuals. Thanks to your efforts, we were able to discover new places and learn about different cultures in a fun and safe way. You also embody a wonderful example of benevolent travelers, who seek to spread goodness and love everywhere they go. Many thanks to your wonderful team for their dedication and commitment, and I wish you more success and excellence in the future. We eagerly await your next adventures! Best wishes, [S Family]

I would like to tell you that it was a really fantastic trip; well organised by you and your team. Thank you very much

It was a very enjoyable trip. The children had fun, I enjoyed the beautiful scenery, the people were very nice, and the food and service were excellent.xx

I’m very glad I’m interested.

 It was a very enjoyable trip. The children had fun. I enjoyed the beautiful scenery. The people were very nice and the food and service were excellent. xx

We loved it! It was soo good and the  food was soo good as well.