Essex County Council (ECC) has set up donation points across the county for anyone wishing to donate essential items or clean clothes to individuals arriving from Afghanistan, after being inundated with requests from residents wanting to help.

The centres are in Colchester, Chelmsford, Dunmow and Stansted.

The donation points will be available at the following locations and times:

- Refugee Action Colchester, 15 Queen Street, Colchester, CO1 2PH

- Community 360, Winsley's House, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UG

- Chelmsford Community Resilience Hub: please call 01245 280731

- Hamptons Sports and Leisure Centre, Chelmsford, CM2 9FH: 26 and 27 August, 1-3pm

- Uttlesford Community Hub, 45 Stortford Road, Dunmow, CM6 1DQ: Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4.30pm

- Touchpoint Day Centre, Crafton Green House, Stansted, CM24 8AB: Wednesday, 9am-1pm and Thursday 9.30am-4.30pm

The items that are most needed include:

- Clean clothing and underwear for adults, children and teenagers of all ages

- Toiletries, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, sanitary items and shower gel

- Baby milk and nappies

- General essentials/consumables

- Toys and entertainment for children and young people

In a statement on Facebook, ECC said: "We have seen an incredible response from communities to date and we continue to be inundated with calls and messages from people looking for opportunities to give what they can to support those arriving in the county.

"As individuals and families have arrived in Essex, local authority, NHS and voluntary organisations have quickly put in place support to address their immediate health and welfare needs."

Residents are encouraged to follow Covid-19 guidance when attending the donation points and a face covering will be required when inside.