The wonderful exhibition of refugee art in Hay Castle includes work by Nathaly Buitrago  who is a talented Gower College student photographer . George Wilson, Swansea Asylum Seekers  Support Volunteer coordinator,  realised that she had not been able to see the exhibition herself and kindly arranged a trip during half  term. Nathaly was accompanied by her mother who is the subject of many of Nathaly’s photos and her brother.  In addition George was able to bring  Aruni and Martha and their families for a day out and an interesting visit.

Storm  Ciaran was blowing over during the day but didn’t dampen spirits.
They  were met at the Castle by Claire and Morgan  who were able to accompany them around the exhibition and the Castle. Mari had kindly arranged not just for free entry but also for the use of the staff room where they were able to relax and have a delicious lunch provided at ‘mates rates’ by The Sandwich Cellar[ Thanks to Claire for fixing this] .
After lunch and a poem by Martha , they were able to wander round town, visiting bookshops and discussing whether any would be interested in selling Aruni and Martha’s books of poems. We will try to sell some at our Fair trade stall on November 25th in Hay Market.

here is Martha’s poem

Oh and Nathaly’s mum Roxana was Gower College Access student of the year where she studied Counselling. HBTSR had helped her access his course by buying her bus pass. She had not forgotten and came to Llangynidr welcome day to show us her award.

Thanks to Mari, Claire, Morgan and George for making this happen  and to Hay Castle staff and Volunteers for making it such a warm and welcoming place to visit.