A GROUP of Bromsgrove residents is getting ready to give a big welcome to Syrian refugees after the district offered to provide a sanctuary for those fleeing the war-torn country.

"Bromsgrove Welcomes Refugees" has been set up to give community support to at least 12 desperate Syrian families who are expected to be offered homes in the area over the next year.

Members are now appealing for more help from local people.

Bromsgrove District Council and Worcestershire County Council have said that refugees will be welcome in the town under the Vulnerable Person Relocation Scheme (VPRS).

John Cochrane, spokesman for "Bromsgrove Welcomes Refugees", said: We believe that the council will provide housing, education, health and welfare support with funds from central government.

"However, extra support will be needed for furniture, clothes, some essential supplies and translation plus, very importantly, friendship.

"Our group is open to all, of all faiths and none, and all political persuasions and none.

"We call on all Bromsgrove citizens to join us in this work."

The group is inviting anyone willing to help to its next meeting, on October 28 at 8pm, at the Community Centre at St Peter's Church, Rock Hill.

Mr Cochrane said: "We are making a mailing list of interested persons so that we can keep them informed.

"Help of many kinds will be needed. Examples are interpreters, people able to teach English, write letters, practical house maintenance, knowledge of various services within the community, donations of clothes, household equipment and drivers.

"We plan to open a bank account so donations can be made to supplement the welfare needs as appropriate and fund our work as necessary."

He added: "Our group is still very new and young.

"We are still very much in the planning stage."

More information is available by emailing info@bromsgrovewelcomesrefugees.uk or visiting the website http://bromsgrovewelcomesrefugees.uk