MORE THAN 60 people showed up to provide their support for refugees in Europe on Saturday, September 19.

'The Big Sort' saw people come together to donate clothes and camping equipment for the Cardiff and Vale sanctuary support group.

West House was the venue for a massive day of collections of which St Augustine's church have been the driving force.

It was a hive of activity with donations pouring in and children playing on the lawn.

Items collected will shortly be transported by charity groups working in France, Kos and Syria.

Penarth Town Council agreed to offer their premises for the day so goods could be packed for transportation.

Cllr Lis Burnett was one of the many on hand to offer their support to the cause.

One of the organisers, Petra Barberini said: "The motivation for these actions is a compassionate support for those seeking sanctuary in Europe, to help keep families and individuals safe and fed while the various governments decide their fate."

At St. Augustine's, a database of skills has gathered pledges of volunteer help from over 100 people.

Volunteers include members of local churches and community groups, local councillors, parent and teacher representatives from Penarth schools and local residents.

Other offers have included fundraising events ranging from Cake baking to Chamber orchestra Concerts.

Cash donations have also been sent to the Red Cross and last week pledges from individuals will raise almost a thousand pounds for large winter proof tents.

The next target will be raising money for food parcels needed by the French charities. Further details of sanctuary support meetings and events will be publicised in due course.