CREDITON’S most generous collection of items for refugees so far took place at Crediton Congregational Church on Saturday, November 18.

The early shift of volunteers arrived to about a dozen black sacks, and, as donations streamed in, with boxes, kindly supplied by Wootton’s in Tiverton, running out, they started to feel overwhelmed.

Luckily there were fresh, new volunteers able to welcome the goods which continued to arrive throughout the morning.

“Crediton opened its heart this morning,” said Chris Freeman. “Some people had bought things specially, with labels still on, and really good coats. Others supplied clean second-hand clothing, hand-knitted items, crocheted blankets, toiletries and food.”

Most of the boxes fitted into the van of Marcus Tribe to be taken to Refugee Action from Taunton (RAFT).

However, a floor to ceiling mountain of boxes remains in James Gregory’s office at the Congregational Church Manse which will, thankfully, be taken as a further load, by Marcus, in a few days.

“We are grateful for the open heartedness demonstrated by our town this morning,” said Laura Conyngham of the Welcoming Refugees in Crediton group.

“Our next task is to find a landlord of a house or flat in Crediton, willing to rent to one refugee family. If you are that person, please get in touch with Gerald Conyngham on 07795 151552.”

Alan Quick