The Archbishop of Canterbury has praised a Kent secondary school for the welcome it has given to a North African refugee in his televised New Year message.

The Most Reverend Justin Welby visited the Marsh Academy in New Romney where he said he had an uplifting experience meeting pupils and teachers.

In particular he focussed on the kindness shown by the school and community in Romney Marsh. He said: “I had the honour to meet privately, an inspiring boy who at just 14 fled his homeland in North Africa after soldiers stormed his school and attempted to abduct him.

“He was saved by a courageous teacher, and was so terrified that it would happen again that he decided to escape.

“This is just one example of the many desperate journeys children are making on their own to save their lives.”

Video: The Archbishop of Canterbury visits the Marsh Academy in Kent

The Archbishop reminded viewers that Jesus was himself a refugee for much of his early life. He also praised the school and said it “represents the best of what we can do in this country”.

He added: “It welcomes, it loves, it serves, it teaches and equips people and demonstrates our ability to live up to our long-established tradition of warmth and hospitality.

“It's not a rich school, many families in the area are struggling on a day-to-day basis. And yet this school and surrounding community are astonishingly generous. If they can do it, so can we all.”

.elcome refugee familiesThe government has pledged to welcome 20,000 Syrian refugees fleeing the war there, and both Ashford Borough Council and Shepway District Council have agreed to w

The Archbishop concluded: “In today's world, hospitality and love are our most formidable weapons against hatred and extremism.

“I have met some extraordinary people today, from this area and those who have risked their lives to find safety. The hospitality of people here brings love, hope and joy.

“If we imitate them, society becomes a far better place.”