Grenfell families recharge in Cornwall

Families who lived in Grenfell Tower have spoken of their 'natural therapy' received during a week-long break in Cornwall.

62 guests visited Falmouth last week on a holiday organised by the Cornwall Hugs Grenfell project.

This holiday is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.

The families stayed together at the University of Exeter’s Cornwall campus.

As well as water-sports they enjoyed a farm visit and trips to attractions such as the Eden Project and St Michael’s Mount.

There were also massage and reflexology sessions and a singing workshop.

The guests are aged between 7 weeks and 64 years with only one person having visited Cornwall before.

They say taking part in activities like paddle-boarding and riding on the ZipWire for the first time has boosted their confidence.

One guest added that being in the county was like experiencing “natural therapy”.

Mother of two, Hanan Wahabi is a primary school teacher who used to live on the 9th floor of Grenfell Tower.

She lost her brother’s family of five who lived on the 21st floor in the fire.

Mrs Wahabi also thanks Cornwall Hugs Grenfell and the public for making the trip a memorable experience.

The 30 children in the group made new friendships as they enjoyed the activities organised for them.

Israa, aged 12, whose family was evacuated from a neighbouring block to Grenfell and has been living in hotel accommodation since the fire, said Cornwall had given everyone “fresh air”.

Cornwall Hugs Grenfell says the week was a resounding success.

Cornwall Hugs Grenfell says the event would not have been possible without the 'team effort' provided by local businesses.

Many local organisations involved in the week say they are proud to have taken part.

Cornwall Hugs Grenfell says the Falmouth group holiday was oversubscribed.

It is aiming to offer another group holiday in the October half term for those who missed out this time.