YOUNGSTERS at a youth club in Cotford St Luke took part in something a little different to their usual games and activities recently.

Instead of the entrance fee, 55 young people at Event were asked to bring in food from a suggested list to make into family food parcels for refugees.

Many of them spent the evening decanting rice, spices, tea and other dry foods into bags along with tinned food to make up basic food selections.

The food parcels are being collected, along with other donations of essentials, by a group of Taunton volunteers who will then transport them onto groups who are working with those in need.

Anna Brindle, volunteer youth leader: "We were impressed at the efforts the kids went to to bring in food, especially those that spent a whole evening bagging up spices.

"For some of them, it helped them consider how difficult things might be for the refugees, but also inspired them to realise that even at their age they can help."

Event is a popular youth group that runs most Fridays in the school hall in Cotford.

Volunteers from Cotford Church and the village organise games, crafts, cooking and activities and offer a safe place for them to socialise.

The refugee collections in Taunton are being coordinated by the group People to People Solidarity - Taunton Deane', which is spearheaded by Taunton Deane cllr Federica Smith.

If you would like to contribute to the transportation of donations, visit crowdfunding.justgiving.com/federica-smith