A borough council is making preparations to welcome refugees from Syria.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has today announced it will be helping families who are fleeing the current conflict in Syria.

The council has confirmed that, in the first instance, two families will be housed in the borough as part of the Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation scheme.

A spokesman said 10 families in total will be accommodated in the area over the next five years.

The exact timetable for when the refugees will arrive is not known but the first families are expected to arrive before Christmas.

Councillor Lynne Weatherly, cabinet member with responsibility for communities and wellbeing, said: "Thank you to everyone who has contacted Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to offer their support since the humanitarian crisis in Syria became so apparent.

"We are pleased to be participating in the Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons’ Relocation scheme and providing assistance to families who have found themselves in a desperate situation."

The families will be housed in private rented accommodation and a council spokesman said there will be no impact on social housing.

The council is asking any other landlords who may be interested in providing accommodation to contact Jane Lang on 01892 526121.