THE Torch Theatre welcomed some very special guests on Tuesday, July 14.

Young people, many with sensory loss and additional needs, came together to spend a day at the very first UCAN Perform Festival in Pembrokeshire.

Activities included the creation of a radio play, learning to play the ukulele, playing drama games, along with the ever-popular circus skills workshop delivered by Paddy the Clown.

The event was supported by South Hook LNG. The deputy general manager, Hamad Al Samra, said: “We feel privileged to have been involved, helping these remarkable young people learn new skills and develop a new found confidence.”

Catherine Scott, Advisory Teacher for the Deaf, HI Services in Pembrokeshire, said: “This was the first time that deaf and hearing impaired children from such a large group and area were able to access the wonderful opportunities that UCAN provide.

“All the UCAN staff, without exception, helped to make each session fun packed and meaningful. I was able to see the children’s confidence develop throughout the day with a few surprises, for example, I didn’t realise that I have a natural ukulele player amongst my children and was thrilled when one of my profoundly deaf signers decided that she was confident enough to have a go at speaking a small part for radio."

She added: “I look forward to continuing this relationship with UCAN and I know that our children will be keen to all meet up again. Friendships were forged at the festival.”