Christmas saw Reading locals donate £2,071 to Ukrainian refugees in the local area.

The money helped to buy winter clothes, Christmas gifts and festive food - which was crucial during the chilly spells.

Reading Rotary Club’s donated the funds to Refugee Support Group, the Berkshire’s leading refugee charity.

The group is currently leading the response for Ukrainian refugees in the Reading area, supporting more than 150 Ukrainian families by providing weekly Drop Ins, social activities, mental health support and practical help with things like housing and much more.

Reading Rotary Club were inspired to make the donation after meeting some of the refugee families now living in the Reading area who attend the Refugee Support Group’s weekly Drop Ins at Greyfriars Church Atrium Café.

Christmas gift bags were given to Ukrainian children on Friday, December 2 outside the Atrium Greyfriars church in Reading.

Of the refugees in Reading, 90 per cent are women and children.

Refugee Support Group’s Ukraine Response Coordinator Tatiana Miller said: "This is such a beautiful and generous donation from the Rotary Club at a time when families really need it.

"All the families we’re supporting fled Ukraine with absolutely nothing. Many have no winter clothing and are really struggling with the current freezing weather, so being able to buy hats, coats gloves, and proper footwear will help so many of them."

To find out more and support Refugee Support Group’s work head to refugeesupportgroup.org.uk