A Joyful Spring Gathering at Penpont
A Joyful Spring Gathering at Penpont
Penpont welcomed Hay Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees [HBTSR] and guests from Swansea for its eleventh visit in 10 years with a day that felt more like midsummer than early spring. Under bright sunshine and beside a sparkling river, the estate came alive with laughter, activity, and a strong sense of community.
Families paddled in the river while others explored the beauty of the walled gardens. Visitors joined Pippa and Glen in laying woodchip across the vegetable beds, sharing knowledge and stories as they worked. One guest from Iran spoke with Pippa about how fruit trees were cared for on his father’s farm, adding a meaningful cultural exchange to the day. Children eagerly alternated between loading wheelbarrows, spreading woodchip, and cycling around delivering tools on the garden bike. Across the estate, guests enjoyed the freedom to wander, explore, and gather fresh ingredients for meals in the days ahead.
The much-loved elephant hedge stood proudly in fine form, while the maze drew admiration from visitors of all ages. On the lawn, a lively football match led by Dave and Adil added to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
In the sunny courtyard, creativity flourished. Paper crafts with Linda and Mary, face painting led by Claire and friend, and quilting with Emily’s team brought people together through shared moments of joy and making. Three small quilts—created over the past year during regular Saturday sessions at Hay Castle—were gifted to two families: one welcoming a new baby, and another recently granted refugee status and moving into a new home with their two young daughters. These handmade quilts, described by one recipient as carrying the feeling that you could “smell the love in all the stitches,” will bring warmth and joy to their new homes.
Fresh, local food was central to the day. The honesty vegetable shop run by Vina proved especially popular, with over £100 worth of produce selected by guests and funded through generous donations by HBTSR supporters and Bwyd Powys Food. Additional contributions included a tray of red peppers and sacks of onions, garlic, and potatoes, kindly provided by Cathy and Dennis from Abergavenny Market. There was also an abundance of donated fruit for everyone to enjoy during the day and take home.
The kitchen was a hub of activity, led by volunteers Dara and Meg, who took time off work to support the event. They prepared a range of hearty vegetarian stews, reheated others that were donated and forming the centrepiece of a delicious shared lunch. Thanks to further donations, guests also enjoyed an impressive selection of cakes and biscuits.
Drinks were available throughout the day, overseen by Claire, Chris, and other volunteers who ensured everything ran smoothly. At the welcome desk, Philip and Tim greeted guests warmly—while occasionally transforming their station into a vegetable stall to meet demand.
Words from Our Guests
The impact of the day is best reflected in the words of those who attended:
- “Thank you very much.”
- “It was a wonderful trip—we enjoyed it a lot.”
- “The hosts were very friendly and kind.”
- “Thank you very much for this wonderful day. The children and I were very happy. We hope to hear about future trips.”
- “We had a fantastic time. Everyone was kind and welcoming, and the food was delicious. It felt very special.”
- “What a wonderful place we visited. So many beautiful areas to explore. Thank you for the warm welcome.”
- “Everything was enjoyable and well organised—thank you.”
- “It was an amazing trip. We felt so welcome, and the place was absolutely beautiful.”
- “Thank you for introducing us to such a lovely place and such kind people.”
This eleventh visit to Penpont stands as another uplifting and successful gathering—filled with generosity, shared experiences, and meaningful connections. Organisers extend their sincere thanks to all who contributed, volunteered, and took part, and look forward to welcoming more people to more places in the months ahead.
Thanks to
Vina and Gavin Hogg for generously allowing us to share their wonderful grounds, stable block , to sell their vegetables and for all their help both before and during the day
Margaret for coordinating the event
Dara and Meg for cooking and leading in the kitchen.
Emily and team, Linda, Mary, Claire and friend for the quilting, paper crafts and face painting .
to all the washer uppers, to those who provided drinks, to all who donated cooked food, cakes, biscuits, snacks, fruit, love and welcome
To Glen and Pippa for working on a day off and welcoming so many to do some gardening.
To Bwyd Powys Food for the grant from last year that still helps us to provide locally grown food to our honoured guests .