AN appeal for donations of winter clothing, footwear and bedding to help refugees from Syria and Iraq cope with sub-zero camp conditions, has been issued by St Mary’s Church, at Chiddingfold.

Last year several refugees, including children, froze to death because they lacked warm clothing, bedding and shelter.

In January 2015, images of the desperate plight of refugees wearing flip flops in the snow, circulated by Brighton mum Samara Levy, who launched ‘Samara’s Aid’ to help, triggered a church appeal that attracted a huge response from parishioners.

The village sent 40 large cartons in January 2015 and a further 72 in October following a second appeal in support of Samara’s Aid.

Rector Rev Sarah Brough said: “The people of Chiddingfold have responded generously to requests for help from Samara’s Aid and I have high hopes for our third appeal.

“St Mary’s Primary School, the nurseries and our fellow churches in Chiddingfold will all be involved again – this really is a whole village event we hope to collect as much or more than on previous occasions.”

Items of winter clothing, footwear and bedding, all in good condition, can be left at The Rectory, in Coxcombe Lane (GU8 4QA) from October 2-5.

Cash donations are also needed as it costs £6,500 to transport each container lorry from the UK to Northern Iraq. Call 01428 682008 fo details or visit www. samarasaidappeal.org