A GROUP of Newport volunteers are appealing for support in their attempts to raise money for the people affected by the Syrian civil war.

Alison Stewart is leading a campaign to raise money for the victims, with UN figures showing that over 1 million Syrians have fled to surrounding countries.

Those who have fled are filling the refugee camps and setting up home wherever they can find space.

Ms Stewart said: “I believe that something is always better than nothing so myself and a few friends have decided to do something in aid of the Syrian people.

“We’ve all seen the horrific news reports about Syria which are heart-breaking.”

She is pleading for anyone who is willing to give up an afternoon to either host a fundraising charity event of their choice in their community on Saturday, September 21 or to join Ms Stewart and other volunteers in cleaning shoppers’ windscreens for donations at Spytty Retail Park.

Contributions and donations raised will be sent to and forwarded through Ms Stewart to Operation Mobilisation (OM).

OM is currently working among the Syrian refugees providing food, medical supplies and sanitary items which are a lifeline to millions.

Over 2.5 million people are internally displaced and up to 4 million are reliant on humanitarian aid. Ms Stewart added: “With winter approaching many people will be without shelter and in desperate need of help.

“We also appeal to businesses for resources such as printed t-shirts, banners, posters, leaflets and charity buckets that we can use to advertise and support the event.”

To get involved, call or text Ms Stewart on 07931 988634 or Sue Oliver on 07756 245198.