CAMPAIGNERS are urging the people of Richmond to support their efforts to help the refugees fleeing from war-torn Syria.

Oxfam are holding a summer ball and vintage fair in the town later this month to help them support the thousands of Syrian woman and children now seeking refuge in Lebanon and Jordan.

The charity’s local shop manager Emma Norman said: "Oxfam is providing vital clean water, toilets and shelter for over 250,000 Syrians who fled from their war torn country just with the clothes they were wearing.

“The people of Richmond can be incredibly generous- their support is vital, now more than ever."

Ms Norman and her team of volunteers are inviting people to join their fundraiser for the Oxfam Syria Appeal on August 17.

“We want everyone in Richmond to take part,” she said.

“So many local businesses have already contributed - it is brilliant to see the community rallying around us and supporting us.”

The events at the King’s Head Hotel include a vintage fair, a two-course meal, a fashion show and a summer ball with a music line-up headed by Pip Mountjoy, fresh from her successful Glastonbury performance, and local three-piece band Komova.

Entrance during the day is £2 and tickets for the evening are £10. They are available from the town’s Oxfam shop on Finkle Street or can be reserved by contacting 01748-850643.