REFUGEES in Greece will be among the first to experience the kindness and compassion of the Ledbury community.

Local residents and members of the Ledbury Refugee Support Group joined forces recently, in a local barn, to sort out the vast number of donated items which had been given to help refugees.

With winter approaching, and with refugees still attempting the hazardous Mediterranean crossing, the focus is now on Greece, where the waves are still bringing in both the desperate living and the tragic dead.

The co-ordinating team of the Ledbury Refugee Support Group will liaise with charities with lorries to arrange collection of the donated items next week.

A spokesman said: "The first consignment will go to Greece where there is a growing need as the numbers of refugees increases daily. All the donations will make a positive impact on the lives of those who have nothing."

Group leader, Rich Hadley said: "There are a number of dedicated people without whom the project might have failed, and I acknowledge that they are owed a debt of gratitude."

Volunteer Jan Long said: “It is humbling to see the fantastic array of items given by so many kind people; many of the gifts are brand new and excellent quality and crucially important are the winter coats and shoes. There have also been non -perishable food donations from harvest festivals, and medical supplies."

Students at John Masefield High School have made collections and youngsters at Ledbury Primary have filled shoeboxes with essential items.

There will be a meeting of the The Ledbury Refugee Support Group at Ledbury Market House, from 7pm on Wednesday, November 11.

The aim of the meeting is to "provide an opportunity to hear about the activities undertaken thus far, and current status and to hear views".

The group's activities can also be followed on facebook, at www.ledburyrefugeesupport.com