A WORCESTERSHIRE firm has been working to help child refugees by providing them with protective outerwear.

Muddy Puddle, a brand for young adventurers making suitable durable clothing ensuring children can play

and learn outdoors whatever the weather, is based in Bewdley.

The firm has a collection of returns, samples and faulty items, that are high quality and functional but are

unable to be sold.

For the past two years, the brand has supplied these items to more than 500 children in refugee camps and to asylum seekers in the UK who have fled from war and conflict.

The firm is now calling on other clothing brands to follow suit, particularly during Refugee Week being held between June 19 and 25.

Juliet Stevenson, British Actress and supporter of the United Nations Human Rights Commission

(UNHCR), said: "This initiative by Muddy Puddles is a brilliant idea.

"Refugee children in camps across Europe and beyond lack so many of life’s most basic necessities. Decent clothing is high on that list – many children go barefoot, cold in winter, wet in the rain, and outgrow the little they have.

"They are deprived of clothes that are clean, or fit them properly, or give them any pride or pleasure. I have seen for myself how new clothes occasionally brought real joy and comfort to the children in the Calais Jungle, before it was closed down.

"I am so delighted to hear about this idea of Muddy Puddles to send quality samples to these children, and would urge other suppliers to follow suit.

"I guarantee that you will be bringing these abandoned young people genuine comfort and relief.”

Natasha Ascott, from the firm, added: “The global refugee crisis is a vast challenge that will take years to tackle.

"However I believe that even if there is a minimal amount you can do then you should still try to make a difference.

"So far we have equipped more than 500 children with protective clothing to keep them warm and dry in the refugee camps.

"It would be wonderful if for this year’s Refugee Week, other clothing brands could make the same move with their samples and good faulty items too.”

Muddy Puddles has teamed up with Positive Action in Housing who’s extensive network could ensure that other clothing brands could get clothes to those most in need around the world.

Brands can get involved by contacting Natasha Ascott on 01299 407150 or email natasha.ascott@muddypuddles.com.