AN aid convoy has set off from Renfrewshire taking clothes and items donated by members of the public to refugees in Calais.

It marks the end of a hectic month of preparation for Renfrew couple Jade O’Neil, 24, and her husband Stephen, 30, who jointly organised the aid effort.

They were so affected by watching the plight of the refugees on television they decided to organise a charity effort.

Jade said: “It has been a very busy few weeks but we are delighted people in Renfrewshire have joined in sending a practical show of support to people facing hardship.

“First and foremost, we wanted to give tangible assistance. We also wanted to demonstrate that people in Renfrewshire wanted to play their part in helping people affected by the humanitarian crisis.

“It has been inspiring and overwhelming to see people and organisations volunteering, giving money and donations and getting others involved.

“We would like to thank every single person, group and organisation that has helped the aid convoy become a reality.

"That has included individuals, local organisations, school pupils and students, faith groups, Renfrewshire Council and Renfrewshire Leisure, and many more.”

Four vehicles set off from Paisley at lunchtime on Friday. The cars carried goods including men’s warm clothing, shoes, toiletries and pots and pans.

The convoy organisers have already made contact with established charity workers in Calais and will benefit from their local knowledge in making sure the donated items are what is needed most and that the goods will go to those in most need.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan wished the organisers well as the convoy set off.

He said: “The work of Jade and Stephen and everyone who has supported them has shown the caring side of people in Renfrewshire. The council helped organise collection points for the donation of items and that helped people donate in their own communities.

“Renfrewshire Council has been at the forefront of the effort to support refugees. We were one of the first local authorities to sign up to the national resettlement programme for Syrian refugees and the council has just donated £10,000 to the British Red Cross."