Refugees join biodiversity effort at Gwynedd churchyard

Refugees and asylum seekers from countries such as Iraq and Sudan joined local volunteers for a bluebell planting session at Llanddeiniolen Churchyard.

Twelve people took part in the event, which was supported by the Local Nature Partnership as part of its work to help community groups take action for local biodiversity. The event was supported by Dyma Ni Befriending, a project of Croeso Menai that offers friendship and assistance to asylum seekers living in North West Wales.

Participants were shown how to plant bulbs safely and use tools correctly before helping to prepare and plant them across the churchyard. The event gave volunteers the chance to learn practical skills while contributing to work that supports local wildlife and habitats.

Local priest Revd Naomi Starkey says, “What made the day significant and worthwhile was the fact we shared in an activity and a friendship which transcended any national boundaries; we learned that human beings, whether from Iraq or Sudan, share a humanity and a capacity to laugh, share and join in a common task. We made it possible for people to belong and become included.”

Alongside the planting, the day allowed refugees and local residents to meet, work together and share experiences while taking part in a community project. After the planting activity, there was a short guided walk highlighting features of the historic site.

A follow-up visit is planned for the spring, when volunteers hope to see the first signs of the bulbs they planted and consider whether similar sessions could be held at other locations.

The churchyard, bordered by yew trees believed to be around 2,000 years old, sits on a site linked to Deiniolen, son of St Deiniol, who founded the first church there. A local congregation continues to meet monthly.

St Deiniol's Church, Llanddeiniolen, is part of the Bro Eryri Ministry Area in the Diocese of Bangor.