Volunteers have been inspired to drive to France to help refugees.

Next weekend, members of the Drive4Justice team and other local charity workers are heading out to Calais as part of a convoy.

And they are urging people to donate everything from clothes to food to help refugees stranded in the French port.

Asif Mahmud from Drive4Justice said: “The shocking picture of baby Aylan Kurdi washed up on a Turkish beach epitomises the appalling humanitarian tragedy taking place.

“There has been a lot of interest from the local community and we have been inundated with donations. People really want to help. I think people want to do their bit and show solidarity with the refugees and those going through hardship.

“We will be leaving Saturday, September 19 from Blackburn at 12 noon to travel to Dover and cross over via ferry through to Calais. We will be returning the following day.

“We encourage people to join the convoy from the start or en route. We will meet with charities on the ground in Calais to deliver our donations.

“We are requesting people to donate items such as blankets, clothing, and non-perishable foods.”

Drop-off points for aid include Unit 16A, Fort Street, Blackburn, BB1 5DP; 69 Plane Street, Blackburn, BB1 6LR and 44 Standish Street, Burnley, BB11 1AP.

Mr Mahmud added: “Those joining the convoy will need to cover their own costs. This includes transport, ferry crossing, food, insurance and, if they are staying the night in Calais, accommodation.

“However, we are more than happy to provide details of ferry crossing costs, fuel and accommodation costs.”

People can also donate money using the Just Giving link https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Drive-For-Justice Already, more than £1,500 has been donated to the Just Giving site and the aim is to raise £20,000.

Drive For Justice describes itself as ‘a group of volunteers with a single aim - helping to raise awareness about the injustices taking place around the world’.

For further information about the Blackburn convoy call 07985 265555.