Afghan refugees offered sessions at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club
GCCC say the weekly sessions offer something to look forward to, structure and stability while they settle into Bristol life
A Bristol refugee charity has partnered with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club (GCCC) to let Afghan refugees play at the County Ground.
The club's announced it has been hosting cricket sessions in Bristol since the end of October for around 20 refugees that have moved to the city since the Taliban took over Afghanistan.
It's all thanks to a partnership between the charity Bridges for Communities, Bristol City Council and the Gloucestershire Cricket Board (GCB).
The sessions will run until at least Christmas, with the club saying it gives the refugees a chance to play the sport they love, while helping them integrate into society and socialise.
In a statement GCC say it also gives them structure and stability during what could be "an uncertain and scary time" for them.
Karen Green from Bridges for Communities said: “We’re extremely grateful to Gloucestershire Cricket for putting on free cricket sessions for Afghan refugees
“For people who never expected to become refugees, who have had their lives turned upside down in the last couple of months and who still face significant uncertainties over their future, outlets like this can be invaluable because they allow people to take a break from the challenges they are facing so they can do something fun and enjoyable.
"We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership to help facilitate further opportunities for others who are rebuilding their lives in the city.”
The refugees have also been offered food after each session thanks to local businesses Koocha Mezze, Joe's Bakery and Gloucester Road Fruiterers.
All three say they are pleased to be able to help.