A successful evening was held in Mumbles which raised the huge amount of £1100 after expenses for future Welcome Days. These are to be held first in Mumbles and possibly in other parts of Swansea where there are very few refugees such as Clydach or Gower. The Church Rooms were packed. Captain Cat and the Sailors, a local folk and shanty band, gave their services free and had everyone dancing – as much as we could in the space! “Friends of Otis”, a group of asylum seekers including Otis himself, and some friends, sang several African songs plus “We want Otis to Stay”! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1VDA1x1_48

Asylum seekers supplied samosas and biryani, and local volunteers ran a bar and a raffle. Thanks to all involved, especially All Saints’ Church for the use of their Church Rooms, Captain Cat and the Sailors, the volunteer chefs and their helpers, and local Mumbles traders for donation of so many lovely raffle prizes.

Here is what one of the asylum seekers present thought of it:

‘We have had an amazing time and a unique experience in Mumbles fund raising event. It was great to see so many local people supporting a really good cause while enjoying themselves. The  journey with ‘Captain Cat and Sailors’ was brilliant and enjoyed every minute of it. Their music and entertainment created an amazing atmosphere made the Saturday night out a perfect one. Singing of ‘Otis and friends’ was great and I believe that made a positive impact to the audience. I must mention the food was delicious too so a Massive Thank you to everyone involved in  organising this event.’