A Haddington appeal for warm and waterproof coats for displaced Syrians has been hailed a success by organisers.
The Countrycoats2syria appeal organises collections of warm or waterproof coats from rural groups and organisations, such as livestock markets, Young Farmer's Clubs and rural communities to donate to the refugee crisis caused by the Syrian Civil War.
Whilst the UK has enjoyed a relatively warm winter, there are millions of displaced Syrians enduring a bitter winter with only the clothes that they are wearing.
East Lothian Conservative candidate Rachael Hamilton arranged an appeal in Haddington over the weekend (Saturday 30th January) which resulted in around 300 coats being donated. The event was such a success that another one has been arranged in Dunbar the following Saturday (6th February).
Speaking afterwards, East Lothian candidate, Rachael Hamilton said: “The countrycoats2syria appeal has really highlighted the generosity and thoughtfulness of rural communities across Scotland and the UK.
“East Lothian didn’t let the side down and I was really pleased we managed to collect so many coats.
“I’d urge anyone who has a coat sitting in the back of a wardrobe to bring them along to Dunbar High Street on Saturday 6th February, where we will be doing another collection. Old children’s coats which your youngsters may have grown out of are particularly needed; any coat can save lives in Syria.
“All the warm and waterproof coats we collected in Haddington are now ready to be dispatched to where they are needed most.”