Bridport's incredible response to help people fleeing the war in Ukraine has been praised by the mayor.

The town hall clock has also been lit in yellow and blue and the Ukrainian flags flying above the town hall and Mountfield has had an "overwhelming" positive response.

Even shops have created yellow and blue displays to show their support.

Bridport mayor, councillor Ian Bark said: "When I made the suggestion to my fellow town councillors, I was met with 100 per cent agreement that this was the least we could do under the circumstances. To have such support from elected local politicians of every political persuasion reinforced by subsequent positive feedback from the people of the town, reflects the strength of feeling and out the unfolding situation in Ukraine here in Bridport."

Despite this, Cllr Bark says he is aware of "one or two people who have expressed a different view".

He has also highlighted a number of groups, businesses and individuals who have carried out numerous generous acts.

The Ukrainian flags seen flying above the town hall and Mountfield were specially made by Bridport Banners, which generously donated them. In return, the town council has donated what would have the cost to purchase the flags to the Disasters Emergency Committee's Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. Bridport Banners has let it be known that they have a quantity of suitable fabric which they can make into flags for those who need them. Call 01308 459688.

An articulated lorry filled with donations from local people has set off for Ukraine driven by Gary Copp, owner of West Bay restaurant Catch of the Day, and Rory Brown if Cains Farm Transport, which is supplying the vehicle. They will hand over the donations to the Red Cross.

Baboo Gelato raised around £4,000 by donating all proceeds taken on Sunday from its kiosks in West Bay and Lyme Regis and its new café in Swanage to the Disasters Emergency Committee's Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

Local rotary clubs have also raised more than £4,000 from street collections and Bridport Youth FC has raised £1,074 - £300 to support the delivery of supplies to Ukraine and the remainder has been added to Bridport Rotary Club fund.

Laurence Boon rode from Bridport to Bristol and back and raised more than £2,000 for Unicef UK.

Tom Littledyke, landlord of The Shave Cross pub, is currently on his second trip to Ukraine, taking lots of donations given by the community.

Bridport Town Council has also been in contact with Bridport Refuge Support Campaign and Dorset Council about the Government's new refugee support scheme.

Cllr Bark added: "We do need to know more about how we can bring the scheme to Bridport and it is very frustrating that things are not moving more quickly.

"The town clerk is in contact with Dorset Council to encourage the provision of suitable premises for homes. He has also sked whether they will be engaging at a county level - this could be a more effective way of operating than each town 'doing its own thing'.

"I also expect that any local arrangements will require volunteer support and you could help with that if you are willing. In the meantime you might want to get involved with the Bridport Refugee Support Campaign at bridportrefugee.org.uk."

To donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee's Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, visit dec.org.uk

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