A GROUP of Palestinian youngsters were treated to some good old fashioned Welsh hospitality on St David’s Day as they visited Powys.

On Friday, March 1, Radnor Palestine Links hosted a group of Palestinian youngsters who are touring England and Wales on a trip organised by the Camden Abu Dis Friendship Association (CADFA). 

For 10 days, these four boys and six girls, aged 13 to 16, and their four adult leaders, are enjoying a respite from the violence that they are experiencing in their home towns in the West Bank – including Assawiye, Abu Dis, Jenin camp and Beit Leeed ad Al Wlajeh.

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By the time they reached Knighton they had already been greeted by Mark Drakeford, First Minister of the Senedd, and had visited Newport.

Arriving in Presteigne they met children of the same age at John Beddoes School and then spent an hour with the scouts in Knighton, sharing snacks, playing games and exchanging stories.

They then enjoyed a supper in a nearby house, with local people who brought food to share. On Saturday, March 2, they met community groups in Craven Arms, before going on to Chester.

County Times: reception for the Palestinian visitors reception for the Palestinian visitors (Image: Radnor Palestine Links)

Despite the difficult situation, with the ongoing war in Gaza and armed settler violence in their villages in the West Bank, these children are getting a breath of fresh air and received a wonderful Powys welcome from the people they met.

They have been fed with Welsh cakes and lava bread and reciprocated with hummous, pitta bread and dates.

Everyone joined in their Palestinian dabke dance and some singing. They were relieved to know that so many local people have been protesting on their behalf to try to get a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the violence in their home country.

For more information about Radnor Palestine Links, email radnorpalestinelinks01@gmail.com or visit the Radnor Palestine Links Facebook group.