Reading Borough Council has pledged to provide homes and support for 10 refugee families from Afghanistan.

People in Afghanistan fled the country after the Taliban took control of its capital, Kabul, including former President Ashraf Ghani.

The Mercure George Hotel, in King Street, is working with the Government to temporarily house some refugees.

“The situation in Afghanistan is truly distressing and Reading Borough Council confirmed to the Government today we will house and support 10 refugee families from Afghanistan,” Cllr Jason Brock, Leader of Reading Borough Council announced.

“This is the right thing to do due to the scale of the humanitarian crisis taking place in the country and along with other local authorities, must do everything we can to help."

Read more: Met Office predicts 'official' UK mini heatwave with 29C highs

Cllr Brock said he was proud of Reading’s City of Sanctuary status, meaning it is part of a network of villages, towns and cities which pledge to welcome people seeking sanctuary.

The Council has commissioned the Reading Refugee Support Group to provide assistance to families arriving in Reading and they have invited housing associations to offer suitable properties.

“We want those fleeing violence and persecution to feel safe and secure in our town and are committed to welcoming and integrating refugees into our communities and our culture,” said Cllr Jason.

He added: “It is essential the Government provides appropriate financial support so we can do this.”

Read more: Berkshire travel and traffic updates as schools reopen

Last month the Home Office announced it would launch an Afghan citizens’ resettlement scheme, after pledging to take in 5,000 refugees with a year.

Cllr Brock said Reading Borough Council are awaiting the details of the scheme.