THE story appeared in the Courier on Friday, May 6, issue 1084.

A meeting was held at Queen Elizabeth’s School Drama Hall in Crediton to hear about life in refugee camps and consider how Crediton could welcome a small number of refugees.More than 50 people attended the meeting organised by the "Welcoming Refugees" group who listened to accounts from Mary Houldsworth (known as Flowa) and Gary Hill who have both had experiences of working with refugees.

The government has agreed to take 20,000 refugees from camps outside of Europe and local authorities can bid to be a sponsoring body with funding provided from the Home Office for up to five years.

Mid Devon District Council has not signed up, but the group feel that if enough people show their desire to have some families in Mid Devon then this could change.

People who attended the meeting took forms where they could pledge to help in a number of ways including befriending, translating or offering accommodation. These forms are available from Crediton Library or the Courier office.

Do you think Mid Devon District Council should commit to taking in a small number of refugees? Please let me know. You can contact me at: 102 High Street, Crediton or by email at: [email protected] .

What you told us ...

There are lots of people who were born in this country who need help and aren’t getting it. It is very sad for the refugees but there must be people in their own country who could help. As working people we expect our taxes to go to helping people in our own country first. There are so many people in need and having to go to food banks.

Crediton Resident

Where will they go? Where will they live? I need more details on numbers etc. Taking in refugees is one thing but looking after them properly is another.

Newton St Cyres resident

I think we should play our part and help the refugees.

Crediton Resident

I think Mid Devon District Council need to look after its own first. We pay our council tax but the services we get are not good. When they empty out bins they leave half of it behind.

Crediton Resident

I don’t think Britain is doing enough for refugees. I’m just on the border into North Devon but I think we should help as long as local councils can cope.

Claire Murray, Ashreigney

The only thing is we seem to be very crowded, but we do have to help others. It’s the Christian view. I’m not sure whether I would be able to offer help myself. We are all pushed with all the cut-backs.

Sylvia Kingdom, Crediton

I think they should, absolutely. If I was in that position I would want someone to help me.

Cathy Horsley, West Sandford