VOLUNTEERS from Dorset have spoken out about "Third World conditions" in the Calais refugee camp known as the 'Jungle'.

Karl Wallace, who works as a nurse and served on Bridport Town Council until 2015, visited the camp just before Christmas

He said he found the situation to be "absolutely dire", with only one nurse and two medical students providing healthcare to those living there.

He stated that he had seen children playing in mud and excrement, as well as one child who appeared to have tear gas injuries around their eyes.

Epidemics of skin conditions such as scabies were commonplace, he claimed, and coughs and colds were turning into pneumonia.

"Volunteers said migrants were not allowed to use hospitals unless they were virtually dying," said Karl.

"These people need to have medical facilities and the UK does have a duty of care.

"It may not be seen as a high priority, but these people are living in Third World conditions just over the Channel."

Karl is campaigning for medical supplies such as gauze, dressings and slings so that he can take them to the camp.

He said: "I am planning to go again in the next couple of weeks and I do not want to go empty-handed."

Bridport composer Elizabeth Hornby also visited the Calais camp at the beginning of this year.

She said: "It is difficult with the conditions because it is very wet and muddy and we are worried about the medical situation.

"There are not the major global organisations you would expect to be there.

"They really need the help now over the winter, when they have a drop in volunteers."

Elizabeth praised the fundraising efforts of Dorset residents, who donated money and clothing prior to her journey to the camp.

She said: "We took money we had raised from concerts and people giving money.

"We had 1,200 euros to give to the kitchen and a further 300 euros from our JustGiving page."

Elizabeth has also made plans to return to Calais in the near future.

Rebecca Gilbert, of the British Red Cross, said: "The Red Cross is extremely concerned about the situation across northern France, including in the ‘Jungle’.

"Due to growing needs, the French Red Cross plans to expand its humanitarian assistance in northern France, including providing mobile shower units, relief supplies including first aid kits, and services to help people make contact with their families."

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830982

e: tom.beasley@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoTom