JEWISH people whose families had to flee persecution during the Second World War have helped raise money for refugees in a similar position.

World Jewish Relief, based in Childs Hill, raised £303,000 to support refugees in Turkey who have been forced to leave war-torn Syria.

The charity thanked the Jewish community for its generosity but is now keen to reiterate the need to ensure attention remains fixed on the crisis.

Paul Anticoni, World Jewish Relief’s chief executive said: “Once again the community has shown its generosity at a time of dire need.

“Your support will enable refugees in dire need to get access to food and medicine where otherwise there would have been none.”

Young supporters of World Jewish Relief have also embarked on a campaign to draw attention to the crisis, by making a link between the Jewish community’s experience of being refugees.

The campaign is called ‘my family were refugees too’ and supporters have been posting photos of themselves wearing t-shirts with the slogan on social media.

Hannah Layton, chairman of Young World Jewish Relief, said: "Young people are extremely passionate about doing their bit for the refugee crisis.

“We know only too well from just 70 years ago what it is like to be a refugee.

“I am so proud that World Jewish Relief and the Jewish community are coming together to respond to this crisis."