Call for donations to help Syrian refugees

Men’s clothing, heavy shoes and coats are among items most needed by families seeking refuge, with blankets and pans also on the list.

The drop-off centre is now open for bagged items at The Kenilworth Centre in Abbey End between 9am and 4pm until September 17.

It is hoped that residents will help donate items to add comfort, warmth and essentials for the growing number of families camped on the French border after fleeing war-torn Syria.

Richard Dickson is one of the people behind the campaign to send out supplies, and said it is simply about helping people in need as solutions are found to the crisis.

He said: “It is simply a matter to trying to do something that’s helpful for people in an appalling situation, knowing that if I and my family were in the same difficulties we would welcome help.”

He has thanked everyone for helping coordinate the collection, and to the community centre for opening its doors.

Volunteers are hoping schools will also get on board before the supplies are taken to London and on to France.

Items most needed are trainers or hiking shoes sizes 41 to 46, jackets, travelling bags, socks, candles, torches and belts.

Also tracksuit trousers, jeans, blankets, sleeping bags, soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, woolly hats, underwear and pots and pans. Clothes for women and children are not needed. Nor are pillows, jumpers, Wellington boots or suits.

Items should be sorted for efficient distribution.

Contact Richard Dickson on 0771 3594506 for more information on donations.