In January, local families in North Hertfordshire gathered for a New Year party at the Quaker Meeting House in Stevenage. The venue was generously made available to us without change. About one hundred people attended the event, including volunteers who helped to set up, give families lifts, and organise children's activities. The children were delighted to have their faces painted and to take part in a treasure hunt. Delicious food was provided by Mohamed, who is a local chef and friend to Herts Welcomes Refugees. One volunteer commented: "The afternoon passed in something of a haze, but there have been lots of appreciative comments which made it all worthwhile."