LAST year a small charity known as From the Heart of Wales, based near Llanidloes, sent 140 gift bags to children in orphanages in Syria for Eid Al-fitr.

Eid celebrates the end of Ramadan, a period of fasting, and it is traditional to give gifts to children on this day.

Money was raised through a Smash-it Stall on Llanidloes Market and from individual donations.

This was then spent on buying the gifts and the bags, with all administration costs being covered by the founders.

Local businesses in Llanidloes also donated sweets and other items.

Each gift bag was packed with toys, sweets, pens, notepad, a toothbrush and toothpaste and deodorant for older children.

Ceri Jones, a representative of the charity, said: “The children are in such a desperate situation, still living within the devastated country, and they have lost their families. It’s not much, but we hope that it shows that Wales cares about their plight and brings them some happiness.

"Due to personal commitments and the earlier date of Ramadan this year, From the Heart of Wales has been unable to replicate the gift bags this year but intend to attempt to double the amount in 2019.”

You can visit their Facebook page to view a video of the children receiving last year’s bags, to donate or get in touch.

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now