VOLUNTEERS are working hard so the first refugee family from Syria to arrive in Petersfield has a home to come to and support to help make a new life here.

The Rural Refugee Network (RRN) group says it expects they will arrive early in 2016.

RRN joint chairman Julia Thistleton-Smith, of Langrish, said: “East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) has been very helpful and supportive and we are working closely with them, and we hope the first family will arrive here early in the new year.”

More than 40 people attended a public meeting, including landlords, an Arabic speaking chef, health workers, teachers, and members of the town’s religious community.

Some Oxford students from the Middle East have also volunteered their help.

Julia said: “It was very positive, with people offering help, and we may have found a house for a refugee family.”

There isn’t a set number of Syrian families who may come to Petersfield, but it could be as many as ten.

Julia said: “We will be using a private landlord, as there are local people who have been on the housing list for years and we don’t want them to lose out.

“We are raising money for welcome packs, and starting a support fund. For the first year they will be supported by the Government, but then that is significantly reduced.

“We aim to help with translation services, paperwork, schooling, doctors, and finding work.”

The family will be one of the 20,000 refugees from camps in Syria, Turkey and Jordan the UK has promised to resettle. They will all be vetted and all will be families, says the Government.

With other authorities, EHDC and Hampshire County Council have pledged support to resettle them. RRN also has the backing of East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds.