VOLUNTEERS aiding Bolton's refugees are sharing the stories of the asylum seekers they have worked with in a new exhibition.

Bolton Destitution Project has set up an exhibition in the Central Library, featuring the experiences of refugees who have journeyed to the borough to start a new life.

There have been 1132 visits to the Destitution Project's caseworker — a huge increase of 109 visits since the year before. The highest number of visits have come from Sudanese asylum seekers and refugees, with 240 visits in the last year, followed by those from Iran and Iraq.

Destitution Project volunteer Paul Barnes said: "The Destitution Project volunteers have worked hard preparing the materials along with the asylum seekers and refugees."

The exhibition, which will run until Wednesday in the main hall of the library, also features pictures of activities ran by the project.

On display are beautiful works of art by those being helped by the project, including images of wildlife in their home countries such as birds and lions.

Testimonies detailing love and loss also decorate the display, all written by people using the destitution services after moving from distant nations.

One story was from an Iraqi refugee named Fatima who moved to Bolton nine months ago with her 15-year-old brother.

The testimony read: "I like Bolton because I feel safe in England. I like college because the teachers are very friendly and I like walking in Queen's Park."

Mr Barnes said: "We're giving a positive image of what the Bolton Destitution Project is all about — welcoming and caring for people who have had, in many cases, traumatic experiences in their homeland.

"Arriving from a war zone, many people are in shock.

"Refugees and asylum seekers can express their feelings and experiences through writing and drawing. Colouring a picture might be a start."

The group, which runs on Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm, aids asylum seekers and refugees settling in the Bolton area.

The project provides newly-arrived asylum seekers who have no other support with basic food, toiletries, good quality second hand clothes, bedding, hot meals and informal English lessons.

The group also helps asylum seekers integrate by including them in activities such as pool and table tennis.

The project relies upon donations from generous locals, who can donated food, toiletries and clothes as well as monetary donations.

For more information, email dropindp@gmail.com.