A GROUP of about 100 Syrian refugees enjoyed a barbecue, music and games at Dixons City Academy in Bradford.

Sixth formers organised the event after an earlier welcoming event in April proved successful.

Debbie Vickerman, IT teacher who also helps co-ordinate the newly formed Syrian Action Team of students, said: “The students raised money for the food and the guests, mums, dads and children all seemed to enjoy the hospitality.

“The sixth formers helped organise games with the younger children and there was a game of curling set up in the hallway.

“With everything that is happening in the world right now it is inspiring to see young people being positive and helping to bring communities together.”

One woman who had come to Bradford in October last year was 52-year-old Iman Al Lada Kani. She was from Damascus and fled initially to the Lebanon after her husband died to escape the war zone and she and her two children, Ali, aged 11 and Ghayth, 12, eventually made it to Europe.

Both children are picking up English well and are helping their mother to learn the language.

Mrs Al Lada Kani is also attending English speaking classes through Horton Housing Association.

She said through an interpreter: “I am very happy. I have only been here ten months but I am feeling settled and have been welcomed and accepted in the city. I thank everyone for their kindness and also Horton Housing for letting me study.”

She also said she was a dental assistant in Syria and did hope to continue that work in England when she had learned the language.

Twelve-year-old Hamza Al Halabi who was present at the April event, sang a song in English towards the end of the barbecue with sentiments of appreciation, hope and thanks. He was at the barbecue with his mother and brother.