By Jeremy Grimaldi
Monday, June 23, 2008
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| Hussein Bassad standing next to reporter Jeremy Grimaldi, who is 6ft tall but doesn't look it in this picture! | |
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TALL tales come from men of all sizes. But this man's horrific stories have to be heard to be believed.
Hussein Bassad, who is the second tallest man in the world at 7ft 8.9ins, was in Swindon to promote a National Refugee Week event at Swindon's Pilgrim Centre.
During the event, Hussein, 33, who is a Somalian refugee, listened to stories from some of his former countrymen about their escape to the UK. He posed for pictures with visitors who were amazed by his size and friendly nature.
Hussein also took the opportunity to tell of his own near death experiences when, during his attempts to escape the fighting in Somalia, he was shot in his knees, partly due to his size and lack of speed.
But once the stories had been recounted, the evening turned to celebration with a fashion show and musical performances by African singers.
Hussein, who is also the record holder for having the world's biggest hands, measuring an amazing 10.59ins, said he wanted to say thank you to the people of Swindon for showing him such a good time.
He said: "I just lost my title of world's tallest man to another man in Somalia.
"But you never know I may regain it one day.
"I think this event will help a lot of people in Swindon, the UK and all over the world."
Organisers said the event was intended to celebrate the contribution that refugees have made to the UK and also to raise awareness about their plight. Kate Rowe, citizen engagement manager for Swindon Council, says the event was all about myth-busting.
She said: "People are very grateful to this country for helping them at their most needy times and Hussein is a case in point.
"People in Swindon come from different countries but now we all share the same community and the event is about bringing that community closer together."
The event, which is in its second year, was officially opened by the Swindon Mayor, Steve Wakefield, and was largely promoted through Swindon 105.5 community radio station and an art exhibition at the temporary Central Library.
Coun Colin Lovell (Con, Moredon), lead member for safer and stronger communities was pleased with the way the event turned out.
He said: "We have had a fantastic turn out for our event and it has really showed that Swindon's refugees are pulling together with all of us to create a more cohesive community."
He added that there were 148 asylum seekers in Swindon, only 30 per cent of which are likely to be allowed to stay in England meaning the rest are likely to be sent back to their country of origin if deemed safe enough. If anyone would like to contact Kate they are asked to call her on 01793 466505.
Source: SwindonAdvertiser, June 23, 2008