AN emotional reunion has taken place of Vietnamese refugees who came to Sopley in the late 70s and early 80s and those who welcomed them.

Nearly 150 people came together for the poignant occasion in Bransgore, many originally from South and North Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as members of the teaching and support staff at Sopley and their families.

A number travelled from USA, Canada, France, Germany, Switzerland and Ireland to join in.

The age span was two years old, to 96-year-old Dr Gordon Hickish, the local GP who attended Sopley camp when it was opened up as sanctuary for those fleeing communism after the Vietnam War.

They became known as the Vietnamese Boat People.

Dr Hickish was very warmly applauded and original camp residents brought their partners, children and grandchildren.

Emotional testimonies were given, expressing gratitude and the value of remembering and recording history for future generations.

There were numerous joyful reunions, for example, between Sopley First School teacher Alice Merritt and the Ung family, now living in London and Texas.

Two young sisters from the local Marriott family had befriended children To Hue and To Cam Uong in the camp, and the four met again for the first time as adults.

The former staff at Sopley have especially fond memories of the many children who had made the dangerous journey, and who now brought their own children and grandchildren to meet the first friendly faces they met when they came to England.

Some people also visited the original camp site where a commemorative plaque was unveiled lasted year at the FONFA museum, the only remaining RAF building.

Laura Harvey niece of Sopley First School teacher ‘Toni’ Burke said: "What wonderful day. I know my aunt would have loved today and would also have been very proud to see the amazing adults 'her children' grew up to be. The event reminded me what can be achieved with love, hope and compassion.”

Phap Ung, first school pupil, who was aged seven in 1979 added: “What a great reunion for the Sopley family of friends and love ones.

"It sparked great memories for me and my family of what a great time we had with Sopley staff, teachers and support workers. You all really welcomed us and I'm so grateful for your kindness and support.”

Hue Hoang who was four in 1980 said: “It was absolute honour to meet my new hero Dr Hickish who is the only man I have vivid memories of Sopley albeit traumatic one, as I had to have 3 injections for TB."