OPPORTUNITIES to learn Welsh digitally during the coronavirus pandemic have enabled a mother and daughter duo to learn the language together, although they live thousands of miles apart.

Barbara Raybould and Lauren Black have been learning Welsh together on Zoom since May.

Lauren, who works as a Junior Designer for H&M in Stockholm, Sweden, found the course run by Learn Welsh North East on behalf of the National Centre for Learning Welsh, and persuaded her mum to follow suit.

At the moment, Barbara is living in Coventry, where she’s caring for her father, but she usually lives and works in Llangollen.

She said: “I’ve been working as a Centre Manager at Bryntysilio Outdoor Education Centre, Llangollen for the past 17 years. When I return to work I’m going to practise speaking Welsh with staff who are learning Welsh, and hopefully use the skills I’ve learned in the workplace.’’

Unlike Barbara, originally from Ireland, Lauren learnt Welsh at Ysgol Bryn Alyn, Wrexham but hasn’t spoken the language since she left school.

After searching for a suitable online course, Lauren jumped at the chance to learn Welsh again.

She said: “I’ve wanted to learn Welsh for a year or two, but it was difficult as I didn’t live in Wales. When I heard about this course, I phoned Mum and we decided to register. There’s no lockdown in Stockholm, but it’s been great to have something to do in the evenings.”

The pair are enjoying the course, and plan on learning more in September, as Barbara explains;

“It has been good to meet new people during lockdown and speaking with Lauren every week has enabled me to practise what I’ve learned and check my pronunciation. Our tutor, Huw, is very positive and gives plenty of encouragement. Lauren and I want to carry on learning Welsh and follow another course in September.’’