West Dunbartonshire welcomes youngsters from strife-torn Palestine
Provost William Hendrie (centre) welcomes the group from Palestine to a civic reception in the town hall.
A group of young Palestinian refugees have been welcomed to West Dunbartonshire with a civic reception.
The Youth and Cultural Group from the Aida Refugee Camp in Bethlehem are visiting the area as part of a UK and Ireland tour and Provost William Hendrie hosted the reception at Clydebank Town Hall.
The arts and cultural tour included performances by Dabka Dance Troupe, traditional music, singing, and a photography exhibition. Visitors were also able to view a range of stalls selling Palestinian goods and arts and crafts.
Provost, William Hendrie, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the group from Palestine to Clydebank Town Hall and to have the opportunity to speak to them about their homeland and their time in West Dunbartonshire and Scotland. Their show was outstanding and it was great to see the passion and connection the group has through the art of dance. I’m sure the group will enjoy their visit to Scotland and the time they’ve spent in West Dunbartonshire.”
Chris Docherty, Chairman of West Dunbartonshire Supports the People of Palestine, said: “The group were delighted with the warm reception they received from the people of West Dunbartonshire. I would like to thank the Council for their support and for the civic reception which I know was greatly received by the group. I would also like to thank all the people who came to see the show in Dumbarton and thank them for their kind donations which are very much appreciated.”