The Bishop of Norwich welcomed more than 300 refugees to his garden for a family garden party.
The refugee families, who found sanctuary in Norfolk, enjoyed a bring-and-share lunch, with music, crafts and games for the children and a chance to chat and relax for the adults.
Welcoming his guests, Bishop Graham said: “The city of Norwich has long been a place of sanctuary and I hope you feel welcome this afternoon and as you build your lives in this city and the county of Norfolk.”
The garden party was hosted by the bishop who said it was one of the happiest afternoons of his year. It was organised by Norfolk County Council’s ‘People From Abroad’ team which works with refugees who came to Norfolk as part of one of the government-approved resettlement schemes.
A member of the team said: “Many of our clients are isolated and this is such a lovely place for people to meet each other. It’s brilliant that the bishop lets us use his garden; it’s a safe and happy place.”
Guests had fled countries including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, Somalia and Syria.
Games and activities for the children were run by organisations including the Mothers Union and an ice cream van was a popular addition to the garden on a very hot afternoon.
