THE BOROUGH council has pledged to work alongside partners to help those fleeing from the Taliban in Afghanistan, as it reveals it is helping eight families on a short-term basis.

Test Valley Borough Council leader Phil North said that he's "watched in horror at the recent situation", and said he is "proud that Test Valley is currently pulling out all the stops to support them".

The authority is working alongside the county council and NHS to provide support to eight families staying "on a short-term basis in the borough, while plans are made for their futures in the UK".

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan last month, 20 years after being ousted by a US-led Western invasion.

Cllr North said: “Like you all, I’ve watched in horror at the recent situation in Afghanistan - and despite the harrowing stories that we’ve heard from families that have arrived in the borough - the situation these refugees have been in is something none of us can truly begin to comprehend.

"I’m, therefore, proud that Test Valley is currently pulling out all the stops to support them.”

“Alongside partners and charities, our officers are working constantly to provide the essential items that these refugees need for the coming days and weeks. Helping them with food, clothes, medical appointments and other needs.”

“Many people have contacted me in recent weeks asking about the support Test Valley is giving Afghan refugees – and I’m pleased to confirm that we will continue to do everything we can to help. It’s my sincere hope that with all of our support they can feel safe and begin to look forward to a better future.”

The council added that whilst it is "grateful" for donations made via the Unity collection point, it is not seeking further items at this stage.

It comes as 50 Afghan families have been supported in Hampshire by the county council.

Hampshire County Council had initially agreed to take up to 22 families – consisting of guides and translators who have supported UK troops for the past two decades – but reviewed its position when the Taliban took control of Afghanistan.

A spokesman for the county council said: "The county council and local partners, including district and borough councils, NHS, support providers and local charities, are committed to continuing support for Afghan families arriving in Hampshire as part of the government’s resettlement scheme.

"At present some 50 families are being collectively supported in temporary accommodation pending national decisions being taken on their long term future and relocation.

"Over the next few days, we are preparing to welcome more evacuees but the numbers are unknown at present."