REFUGEE action group iNEED is calling on local people for new donations after its storage unit in Caldicot has been completely emptied and cleaned out.

Spokesperson for the group, Julia Rowe, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of local people and have managed to send a large number of van loads of clothes, bedding, shoes, toiletries and non-perishable food to Anaya Aid in Cardiff. They then send it directly to refugee camps and towns in Syria where it is desperately needed.

“We’ve also received a lot of toys, not all of which we can send to Syria, so we have donated at least 19 large bags and two large boxes to the Forest of Dean Children’s Opportunity Centre in Coleford and to Monmouthshire’s Teddy Trust.

“Our young volunteers have all successfully obtained places at Nash College for September and a few of our volunteers have hosted refugees who were in need of urgent accommodation.

“If you’re having a clear out, please think of us and pass unwanted clothes and bedding on. Being able to provide food and toiletries too is a lifeline for refugees fleeing conflict.”

If you have aid to donate, you can leave it at the Bell Inn in Redbrook or at the storage unit in Caldicot. If you can offer a local collecting point, want to leave a donation or would like to get involved with iNEED’s work, ring 07810 837462 or visit Facebook/iNEED.Monmouth.Newport