DONATIONS of clothes are no longer needed for Afghan nationals who are being rehomed at an army base in Chickerell, following an overwhelming influx of donations from residents.

Chickerell Town Council has been advised that due to the overwhelming generosity of residents donating to the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy campaign, the scheme no longer requires donations of clothing, toys, books, baby products and/or health and hygiene products.

An appeal was put out for donations in December after many of the families arrived with little or no items in their possession.

As previously reported, The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is using Chickerell Camp to house people who supported the UK government and military in Afghanistan. 

The camp is being used to temporarily accommodate families who are eligible to settle in the UK until more permanent lodgings are found.

The Dorset army training camp will house up to 60 people for six weeks at a time. This will amount to 250 people over six months.

It will accommodate families who are eligible to settle in the UK due to their contribution to UK objectives in Afghanistan.

They will then move into more permanent lodgings under the responsibility of local authorities.

It is part of a wider scheme to relocate entitled people who worked with or for the British Armed Forces and other Government departments throughout operations in Afghanistan.   

The MoD has advised the Town Council that bicycles (all sizes) and scooters are still in high demand by the children who are currently residing at the camp but that no other donations are required. 

Nicola Briar, Chickerell Town Clerk said: “Residents have shown a fantastic response to the ARAP campaign and I can’t thank them enough for their generosity. 

"There is still a need for bicycles and scooters that are in good condition so if you have any that you are no longer using then we will be pleased to accept these at the Council Offices.”

Donations can be accepted at Chickerell Town Council offices, Willowbed Hall, Putton Lane, Chickerell. DT3 4AJ from Monday to Thursday (9.30am-12pm).

For further information, please contact Tara Williams, Facilities Manager, on Tel. 01305 767458 or email: tara.williams@chickerell-tc.gov.uk