SEVEN Syrian refugees have been welcomed to Narberth, following a year of tireless work and fundraising spearheaded by the community.

The extended family, whose ages range from 50 to 14, are in the town under the wing of Croeso Arberth, which was set up only last August with the aim of resettling a group from the war-torn country.

The family is now at the start of a two-year support programme being provided by Croeso Arberth which will help them integrate into the community, find work and learn the English language.

“They are just so absolutely delighted and excited to be here and just want to get stuck in to life in Narberth and work,” said Croeso Arberth chairman Declan Connolly.

“They have been living in fear for over two years, fleeing individually from Syria to Lebanon, and then to Egypt where they all lived in one room.

“They are such resilient, brave and friendly people and just can’t believe they are finally out of danger.”

Croeso Arberth has raised £19,000 through fundraising and generous donations over the year, including gifts from churches and mosques, and is now a registered charity with four trustees and a core group of 12 people, each one with a particular responsibility ranging from supporting language skills to providing transport.

“They have all been through so much and were insistent that they were able to stay together,” said Mr Connolly. “We were very fortunate to be able to find them a five-bedroomed house to rent to enable their wishes to be fulfilled.

“The next two years are going to be very intensive for everyone involved, and our fundraising will continue.

“Our immediate aim is to ensure that the family learn enough English to enable them to gain employment, and they are just so enthusiastic at the prospect of being part of a friendly, safe community.”