A Syrian and Ukrainian Refugee Council event will arrive in Ayr this summer.

Refugee Festival Scotland has launched a packed programme of summer events designed to bring communities across Scotland together.  

The festival is organised by Scottish Refugee Council and runs from June 16 to 25, with the Ayr event taking place on June 19.

More than 100 events are set to take place in communities across the country.

Events are organised by community groups whose members have settled in Scotland after escaping wars and persecution in countries including Sudan, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Eritrea, Iran and many other parts of the world.   

This year the theme of the festival is hope, with many events showcasing inspiring stories and sharing hopes and dreams for a better future.

In Ayr's Hope Wellbeing Centre, there will be Syrian and Ukrainian cooking at Baking Borders pop up cafe.

Scottish Refugee Council CEO Sabir Zazai said: “Sharing and celebrating the stories of people who have settled in Scotland and the positive difference they make to our communities is more important than ever.

"Especially right now, when the right to claim asylum is under threat and politicians are using racist, anti-migrant language, which stir up hatred, fear and division.  

“Refugee Festival Scotland offers a positive and hopeful vision for community life in Scotland.

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"When people are welcomed, supported and made to feel at home in their new neighbourhoods, they go on to thrive.

"The festival shows off our communities at their best by bringing people from different backgrounds together to build understanding and celebrate diversity, friendship and solidarity.  

“I would encourage everyone to take part if you can and sample the colours, flavours and atmosphere of the festival. 

"Come along and try food you’ve never tried, hear music you’ve never heard, dance like you’ve never danced, and celebrate with people you might not otherwise get the chance to meet.

"We hope you can join us for this unique celebration of art, culture and community.” 

To find out more about Refugee Festival Scotland and see what events are taking place near you, visit refugeefestivalscotland.co.uk  

The pop up cafe will take place at The Hope Wellbeing Centre between 1 and 3pm on June 19.