A GROUP of Bude residents have started looking into ways the community might be able to offer a place of safety to some of the most vulnerable families and individuals fleeing the war in Syria.

The group has started a campaign aptly titled ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’.

Since the refugee crisis started, there have been such groups springing up around the UK to initiate conversations with local authorities to look at what can be done to help.

Leader of Cornwall Council John Pollard has pledged Cornwall’s support for refugees fleeing the Syrian civil war.

He said: “Cornwall has a proud record of being welcoming and inclusive and we will play our part in doing whatever we can to help these vulnerable people.”

While urging the Government to widen and clarify what the country can offer, support groups are investigating what resources can be made available locally to welcome those in need.

A joint initiative by Citizen UK, Avaaz and 38 Degrees encourages people to approach letting agents in their area to ask landlords to pledge accommodation that lies unused, especially over the winter months.

Simon James, from the ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’ group, said: “We are currently approaching local letting agents, Cornwall Council, as well as ministers in central government to encourage a swift response to such overwhelming need.

“We are also looking into a scheme run by UNICEF raising money for tents that can be heated.

“Currently, over a hundred thousand people are facing a winter outdoors in Eastern Europe. Last winter children were dying of cold in some Lebanese refugee camps.

“You can sign a petition on Cornwall council’s refugee pages to pledge your support for offering sanctuary in North Cornwall to those fleeing the war.”

The ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’ group will meet again at 10.30am on Wednesday, October 21 at The New Life Centre on The Strand.

Simon added: “Everyone is welcome to join the group, there are many ways you can help. You can also visit our Facebook page by searching for ‘Refugees Welcome in Bude’.”

— A collection of items for refugees in Syria from the North Cornwall Cluster of Churches is being co-ordinated by Sue Barlow and Sue Harbour.

There will be two collecting points in Wadebridge from Egloshayle Church and next to the Spa on the Platt from 10.30am to 4pm.

Men’s clothing, waterproof coats, shoes, track suits and storage boxes are especially needed.

A lorry is going out to Syria on October 22. Those donating are asked to leave items marked ‘For Refugees’ at the back of St Endellion Church or contact Sue Barlow on 01208 863455, who will collect them.