AID workers in East Lancashire have revealed that gifts are pouring in to help the thousands of Kosovar refugees forced to flee their homes.

Ian Scott, of Withnell-based charity International Aid Trust, said there had been a fantastic response to appeals for donations from Lancashire people.

He said: "I've never known anything like it.

"The stuff's flooding in and we've had a huge postbag of cheques and anonymous donations.

"We ask for materials but we need money as well, as it costs at least £2,500 to send a truck."

The Trust has already sent one 38-tonne lorry to their charity workers in Tirana, Albania, where more than 130,000 Kosovars have sought sanctuary from the Serbs.

Another lorry will be sent on Sunday and more goods will be sent as soon as the lorries return.

The International Aid Trust is still appealing for gifts including non-perishable food, clothing, blankets and sleeping bags, utensils, baby products, toilet paper and women's sanitary products.

A collection point has been opened at the Haven Christian Drop-in Centre, 169 Accrington Road, Burnley, which is open from 9.30am to 2.45pm on weekdays.

Gifts of cash and materials can also be taken to the International Aid Trust's shop, High Street, Great Harwood, which is open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays and from 10am to noon on Saturdays.

The charity also needs experienced articulated lorry drivers to take aid to Eastern Europe.

Anyone who can help can contact them on 01254 832333.

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