DARLINGTON MP Jenny Chapman has offered her support for a local mum’s efforts to defy Katie Hopkins and bring Christmas warmth to cold Calais camps.

An appeal by business coach Jude Russell to collect as many men’s walking boots before an upcoming trip to France has inspired the MP to open her office doors to donations.

Ms Russell felt compelled to react to columnist Katie Hopkins’ controversial comments on supporting the use of gunships to protect European ports from refugees.

The Darlington mother said Katie Hopkins' comments inspired her to do research and take action.

She said: “If we don’t respond, more people will suffer. I am asking for groups of a few people to club together and buy a pair of waterproof walking boots, perhaps adding a message of hope for the refugee in the boots.”

And Ms Chapman was keen to offer her full support by offering her constituency office as a donation drop-off.

She said: “Jude has shown a lot of initiative in asking for walking boots.

“The people of Darlington are people who are happy to give and I am sure they will be more than happy to support this cause.

“All the best ideas come from the bottom up. Jude’s been to Calais, she’s seen what they need and has come back with a very specific ask – this is footwear.

“I think that people will step up and bring the boots for her.”

Donations can be left at Jenny Chapman’s office at 40a Coniscliffe Road in Darlington and for more information email Jude Russell at judith_russell@hotmail.co.uk