AN event to show solidarity with refugees has been held in Middlesbrough.

More than 100 people gathered at The Holy Name of Mary Church in Linthorpe earlier this month.

The evening, organised by Middlesbrough Justice and Peace Groups, featured a Lampedusa Cross, which was made out of shipwrecked refugee boats by Italian carpenter Francesco Tuccio in 2013.

Carol Cross, CAFOD representative in Middlesbrough, said: “The liturgy was very moving, especially listening to the harrowing experiences shared by the refugees, who have happily found a warm welcome and safe haven in Middlesbrough.

“Everybody who attended was inspired by the refugees' stories and valued the opportunity to be able to speak with them in person afterwards.