THE group ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’ has organised a collection of food, clothing and health items and is asking people to ‘do their bit to help alleviate the suffering of innocent people’.

A van is leaving for Calais at the end of January and a container has been hired to be shipped from Plymouth, heading for Syria in early February.

The following items are desperately needed: sugar, salt, rice, UHT milk, tea, coffee, tinned vegetables, beans, fruit and fish and baby food.

Clothing, which should be in good condition, to a standard of something you or your family would be happy to wear, includes medium or small waterproof jackets, rain ponchos, jumpers, fleeces, scarves, hats, gloves, trainers or walking boots — child size 12 to adult size 10, any new underwear and socks.

Tents and blankets are also needed, along with solar or wind-up lamps and torches. Health items sought after include toothpaste, toothbrushes, plasters, antiseptic cream and baby wipes.

The donations can be left at the back of St Andrew’s Church, Stratton, from Sunday, January 24 until 11am on Wednesday, January 27, when they will be taken to start their onward journey.

A spokesperson for the group said: “We are being contacted all the time by people asking how they can ‘do their bit’ to help alleviate the suffering of innocent people.

“This collection is just one way anyone can help. Your donations will make a difference, please help if you can, thank you.”

For further information visit their Facebook page ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’ or ring 01288 331424.