SEVEN Syrian refugees who are settling into their new home in Narberth have served up a taste of their country at a special Meet the Neighbours tea party.

The extended family, whose ages range from 14 to 50, arrived in the UK in July.

They were brought to safety under the umbrella of Croeso Arberth, which raised £19,000 through fundraising and generous donations within a year.

The group celebrated its first anniversary on Sunday by organising the tea party on the lawns by Narberth swimming pool.

Said Croeso Arberth chairman, Declan Connolly: “After a week of downpours, we feared the worst for the event, but the sun appeared and more than 100 local people attended, many bringing a host of delicious cakes and biscuits.”

The family baked special date and pistachio cakes to give to everyone, and the youngest member, 14-year-old Adnan, sang a moving Arabic song in praise of his father who had kept the family together through the war.

There was also music from local entertainers George Whitfield and Owain Harrison and Narberth singing star Jodie Marie.

Added Mr Connolly: “This was the first time friends and neighbours had been able to meet the family, and people had travelled from Cardigan and Carmarthen to greet them.”

Joining the guests were local MP Simon Hart, county councillor Vic Dennis and community police officer David Henry, who enjoyed meeting the helpers and neighbours.

The Syrian 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.

The family had 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.

Said Mr Connolly at the time of their arrival: “They are such resilient, brave and friendly people and just can’t believe they are finally out of danger.”