A GROUP of Bromsgrove residents has said it is ready to give a big welcome to Syrian refugees after the district offered to provide a sanctuary for those fleeing the war-torn country - however not everyone is as welcoming.

The Advertiser reported last week that Bromsgrove Welcomes Refugees had 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 of the group are also appealing for help from local people.

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

But since both councils pledged to do their bit for humanity they have come under pressure over housing Syrians.

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."

Despite the group, as well as councillors, insisting they will do their bit, not everyone has the same view.

Commenting on facebook.com/thebromsgroveadvertiser a large number of people objected to the town taking in refugees saying they do not want them coming to Bromsgrove.

Matt Baker said: "What about all the Bromsgrove people that have to move out of the area because they can't afford houses?"

Julie Owens said: "The people that want them, you put them up. No homes for Bromsgrove people, not enough school places for our own children, and the NHS is pushed to the limit."

While Jenna Liam-Ronnie Crisp said: "Is this some sort of sick joke?"

Christine Elaine McAuley said: "I worry about the safety of my kids and family. Some of these people could be part of isis."

Gavin Waldron said: "I feel nothing for them. I feel sorry for the British kids and their kids because they won't live by British laws or rules, the country will be run by them [refugees]."

Lee Bryan said: "Fine... as long as there isn't one single elderly person that needs help or a homeless person that needs help or ex army that needs help. I'd rather see the money spent on paying NHS workers or army and more money protecting and helping the people who pay taxes to live in this country."

However, Rich Wilson said: "You have to feel for these folk. Their country is being bombed by US on one set of targets, bombed by Russia on another set of targets, bombed by their own president on any target he feels threatened by, and attacked by ISIL by whatever they deem non Islamic. I assume all of us would want to flee a country in such grave plight."

Paula Watts said: "The world has a duty to help including us... Let's not in the future look back and think that we should have all done more."

Jason Andrew Donnelly said: "I'm not happy about this but they have to live somewhere."

Bromsgrove Welcomes Refugees 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.

What do you think. Would you be happy with Bromsgrove taking in Syrian refugees? Would you let a family live with you?

Email sam.greenway@midlands.newsquest.co.uk.