A SEA of clothing, blankets, duvets and vital medical supplies swamped Ipswich Hospital as dozens of people showed their support for refugees left homeless in the wake of the Syrian crisis.

The hospital held an Aid for Syria Day on Tuesday for Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor Fayez Ayache in his quest to help thousands of innocent people caught up in the war zone which he calls home.

Dr Ayache moved to the UK in 1973 and practices as a GP at the Constable Country surgery in East Bergholt as well as working at the ENT clinic at the hospital once a week.

Last week in The Star he revealed his determination to do what he could to help as more than a million people have escaped the violence, seeking solace in refugee camps in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Turkey.

He appealed for clothing, duvets, blankets and basic medication including paracetamol, as well as out of date medical supplies from GP practices and donations of money to help buy ambulances to send out to Syria.

On Tuesday the hospital opened its Courtyard Restaurant to allow members of the public to donate items to Dr Ayache’s cause.

Jan Ingle, hospital spokeswoman said they were inundated with bags and bags of items. She said the hospital was “immensely pleased” with the response from the public.

Dr Ayache added: “The support from people has been overwhelming.

“As well as all the items donated we have collected around £200 as well – mainly from elderly people.

“I am so grateful for everyone’s support.”

If you would still like to donate to Dr Ayache’s Aid for Syria cause email him at fayezayache@aol.com or drop items off at the Constable Country GP Practice in East Bergholt.

National charities Syrian Relief and Hand in Hand organise for all the items to be sent over to Syria and distributed to those in need.