“FRIDAY was a phenomenal event,” writes Farnham Help for Refugees volunteer Jo Warburton after last Friday’s collection at St George’s Church in Badshot Lea.

“The donation response was completely overwhelming and as we put out more and more calls on Facebook for volunteers, the community responded in the most incredible way.

“As more and more people turned up to help, everyone rolled their sleeves right up: sorting and packing clothing, toiletries, sleeping bags, tents. Some hired vans, many others filled their cars.

“We had to call it a day at 10.30pm on Friday despite the donation mountain still standing, only to return at 7am on Saturday to carry on with the effort to sort, pack and clear it.

“With the knowledge of a wedding booking at midday in the church hall, the pressure was immense. The community volunteers saved the day and truly made the impossible possible.”

Jo added Farnham Help for Refugees will be “doing more in the very near future so watch this space!”

In the meantime, the ‘mountain’ of donations collected last Friday will be making its way to refugees in Syria, Bosnia and Greece, as well as Ukraine.

Visit the ‘Farnham Help for Refugees in UK and Overseas’ page on Facebook for the latest updates from the group.