ASYLUM seekers enjoyed a four-day holiday based in a Hampshire village – thanks to worshippers from a local church.

Eight guests, who are all in the asylum system, were welcomed to the village of Liss during the May half-term. They were hosted by families from St Mary's Church and Hope Church in the village, and enjoyed a variety of activities.

One member of the congregation took them to a golf driving range. Another did a pottery workshop with them, so they could try their hands at that. They also spent time in the chalk stream at Droxford on a very hot day. And there was a chance to try paragliding from the top of Mercury Hill.

There was also a day of organising games, and some time spent in a crochet and craft workshop, thanks to the owner of Liss Yarns. People from St Mary’s Church organised meals for their guests as well, one of which was a pizza evening using a pizza oven in someone's garden.

The final evening involved a barn dance hosted by the Christian community at L’Abri in Greatham. The event was organised through Portsmouth City of Sanctuary, which supports those who are refugees and asylum seekers in the city.