MORE than 200 refugees who settled in west Wales were invited to a special event to mark Refugee Week.

On Sunday, June 11, refugees who came from Ukraine, Afghanistan and Syria and settled in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire took part in the special event at Gwesyll yr Urdd Llangrannog for Refugee Week (June 19-25).

There were representatives from Urdd Gobaith Cymru, the British Red Cross, NHS community development outreach team and Adult Learning Wales and there were activities such as Zip Wire, High Ropes, Quad Bikes, Wall Climbing, Bouncy Castle, and much more. Refreshments were offered and everybody enjoyed the fun packed afternoon.

Cllr Maldwyn Lewis, chairman of Ceredigion County Council, said: “Without a doubt, I was touched by the number of refugees who came to me expressing their sincere gratitude for the welcome in Ceredigion.

"We would like to thank those who came to join in with the fun and we would also like to express our gratitude and thanks to sponsors and hosts for all their hard work and commitment.”

Lowri Jones, director of Gwersyll yr Urdd Llangrannog, said: “It was lovely to welcome refugees from the local area to Gwersyll yr Urdd Llangrannog.

"It was a great afternoon in the company of old and new friends. Seeing the children enjoying and especially developing their confidence and linguistic skills is a source of great pride for us as a Gwersyll and organisation.”

The event was organised by Ceredigion County Council in partnership with Urdd Gobaith Cymru to celebrate the contribution refugees have had in the UK and to promote a better understanding of why people seek sanctuary in other countries.

Many of the refugees have faced severe hardship including fleeing from conflict and seeing their homes and livelihoods destroyed.