DONATIONS have been flooding in to Blaenau Gwent AM Alun Davies' office after he launched an appeal for aid for refugees.

Just 72 hours after he launched his call for donations online, thousands of items including clothing, food and toiletries have been dropped off at his Brynmawr office.

Members of the public have dropped off bags and many organisations, groups and businesses have pledged their support.

Tai Calon housing association are collecting aid from their offices, the Castle pub in Tredegar has opened up as drop off point, Zion Miners Chapel, Llanhilleth are taking in donations on Thursday and Friday and every day more and more people are coming forward to offer their help.

Aneurin Leisure has agreed to take donations of small items (such as clothes, tinned food, toiletries etc) for one week from Monday, September 14, to Friday, September 18, at the six Aneurin Leisure libraries within Blaenau Gwent; Abertillery, Blaina, Brynmawr, Cwm, Ebbw Vale and Tredegar.

The office has become so overwhelmed with aid that items are now being stored at Market Hall cinema, Brynmawr, who are also supporting the good cause.

"The valleys of South Wales were born of immigration and our culture was created by people of all backgrounds coming together," said Mr Davies.

"Blaenau Gwent people have always come together to support others and to welcome people into our homes and communities.

"I've never been so proud to represent this place as I am today seeing this response."

Aid will be collected for the next few weeks, but already there have been so many donations that Mr Davies is calling on local businesses to help transport the aid to the distribution centres in Cardiff or Bristol.

He is also appealing for anyone with any cardboard boxes to contact his office.

Anyone who can help with aid, transport, boxes or if you would like a poster advertising what is being collected, please call (01495) 311160or email laura.doel@assembly.wales

Regular updates are being posted on Mr Davies' Facebook page www.facebook.com/AMAlunDavies