A SYRIAN refugee has encouraged locals to take action and help people fleeing conflict.

Baraa Ehssan Kouja, founder of the refugee charity From Syria With Love, shared his story with an audience in Lansdowne Methodist Church, Lansdowne Crescent, Malvern.

Cllr John Raine and humanitarian worker Krista Sojo joined Mr Kouja in the Shattered Pasts, Shared Futures talk on Monday, June 19.

The event kick-started a range of activities across Malvern, which were held to celebrate refugee week.

Ruth Forecast, of Malvern Welcomes, said: "We heard truly moving and informative talks from two very special and committed young people.

"They both spoke about the realities for people who have been forced to leave their homes, communities, and country.

"We were given much to reflect upon and the message that we must all continue to educate ourselves and others about the realities of being displaced.

"However, caring is not enough, we all need to take action in whatever way we are able.

"It is truly inspiring to know that so many people take positive action to share hope and love to their fellow humans who find themselves in an unthinkable situation.

"We should stop looking for differences in people. We have so much to share and so much to learn from each other."

Ms Forecast said people can help refugees by challenging media narratives, donating towards positive causes and volunteering their time and skills.

Locals also made blankets for refugees at a Knit and Natter event in Vintage Coffee Shop, Worcester Road, Malvern, on Tuesday.

Refugee charity People in Motion held a donation sorting sessions on Wednesday and will host another one on Saturday, June 24.

Poets and musicians have signed up to perform refugee-themed material at two events in Abbey Road Coffee, Malvern.

A spoken word evening was be held at the cafe on Thursday and an open mic night will take place on Friday.

A Reading about Refugees event was also held at Malvern Book Co-operative, in St Ann's Road, Malvern, on Thursday.

A Syrian buffet in Vintage Coffee Shop on Sunday will mark the end of refugee week in Malvern.