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!
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
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
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