UKRAINIAN refugees who have been welcomed into homes in Dawlish have joined in the first of a series of English language sessions.

About 25 guests and their Dawlish hosts took part in the informal classes, two beginners sessions for adults and children and a conversation class.

Following the classes, held at the Strand Centre, one of the refugees said: ‘I felt like I had wings after I left.’

One of the organisers Jody Merrell said: ‘Some have better English than others but everyone got involved and it really felt like a joint effort.

‘Even though we don’t know each other very well yet, we had some good laughs.

‘Everyone is helping each other.

‘The aim is to come together, enjoy coffee, tea and pastries while speaking English and making friends with each other and the local community.

‘It feels like people are coming together to help.

‘It was very positive and there was a lovely warm atmosphere

At the event, there were also items of clothing and shoes available which had been donated.

More sessions are being arranged to help the guests improve their language skills and make contacts locally.

Teignmouth Baptist Church is also hosting a coffee morning for the guests and their hosts on Sunday, May 22 at noon in the church hall.