I recently fulfilled a long held ambition to undertake voluntary work with a Christian Mission organisation in Romania.

The experience was unique and life changing and while I myself considered it an enormous privilege to be able to help, I was also filled with wonder at the welcome and the level of gratitude shown to me by the Romanian people.

Though many of them live in desperate poverty that is hard for most of us to imagine, the local Christians faced life with a joy and faith that were inspirational, and warmth, love and friendship were extended to me wherever I went.

I am aware that many people have supported Romanian charitable work over the years.

For those interested in learning more about my experiences, I hope to be speaking at two or three local venues in the near future.

Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to family and friends who supported me in my venture, particularly members of the congregations of Barry Elim Church and Capel Uchaf (Mynydd Sion), Solva, whose generosity not only provided for my physical needs, with some left over for local projects in Romania.

I am grateful also to Dennis and friends at Photoden for their photographic expertise.

Thank you all so much.

Carys Butler Sea Point Barry