A wonderful day out was enjoyed recently when a large group of people seeking sanctuary in Swansea visited the Bannau Brycheiniog Visitor Centre at Libanus.

Taking place on Wednesday, August 21, the event with held with the support of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (BBNPA) and Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR).

In addition, a number of local Ukrainian refugees and some fostered sanctuary-seeking teenagers from Cardiff and Llandrindod Wells came to join in the fun.

Ramblers Cymru also attended as part of their mission to reach anyone who wants to enjoy the simple pleasure of walking.

HBTSR previously partnered with BBNPA for a welcome day trip in 2016 and since then have visited Craig y Nos at least annually - sometimes twice in a year -  apart from in 2020.

A young girl painted the view from the visitor centre
A young girl painted the view from the visitor centre (HBTSR)

Last week, Storm Lilian brought some high winds but no rain to the gathering and the education centre was well used to share a picnic lunch.

The Big Skill and Pontardawe crafters came with painting and weaving which was much enjoyed and a badminton net was used almost exclusively for a long and inclusive game of volleyball.

After lunch, a short walk onto the common was a chance to talk about Welsh history, the concept of common land and to see some birds and sheep.

Many of the visitors on this occasion were from South America and they were delighted when HBTSR supporter Mike interpreted the discussion led by Hayley from BBNPA into Spanish.

While cake was enjoyed back at the centre, supporters Steve, Sharon and Jacob were washing up outdoors . At one stage, they were heard to start singing and we hope that this scratch group christened 'The Pantrymen' might feel the need to practice at future events!

Thanks are due to BBPNA staff and volunteers for their support and for paying for the transport from Swansea. Thanks to Stuart and Steph for bringing their respective foster children. And thanks also to Lis, Claire, Melrose, Rowland, Penny and Andrew, Barbara and Reg, Adil, Rhiannon, Virginia, Sharon, Steve and Jacob for making this another special day.

Learn more about HBTSR at: https://hbtsr.cityofsanctuary.org