A PATCHWORK quilt created to welcome refugees to West Oxfordshire was seen by some of the most powerful politicians in the land.

The design, spearheaded by Witney Refugee Action Group, formed part of the Museum Without a Home exhibition in the Houses of Parliament in London last Wednesday.

More than 100 squares were filled in by various groups, including members of the town's refugee community, Witney MP Robert Courts, and Cub Scouts from nearby Standlake.

The quilt is meant to symbolise warmth, shelter and safety and celebrates Witney's history in the blanket industry, with each patch featuring pictures and messages of welcome.

Mr Courts was one of several MPs to stop and admire the creation and Liz Duncan, of Witney Refugee Action Group, believes the quilt's message came across.

She said: "We wanted people representing different charities and groups to tell us their stories and how they had been welcomed into Britain.

"One of the members of our group thought a quilt would be a great activity.

"It was a way for people in our community to send a message of support and welcome for newly arrived Syrian families in Witney.

"We hope to welcome more refugee families to the town in the future.”

Mr Courts added: "It was a privilege to see the welcome, open community of Witney represented here in Parliament.

"I am pleased to have played a small part in this project, which sends the message that all are welcome in West Oxfordshire, where you can make your home, join our community and help our area continue to thrive."

The Museum Without a Home has travelled the world since it was first organised by Oxfam and Amnesty International in Athens, Greece in 2016.

Appearing in London for the first time, it aims to celebrate the small acts of kindness that make refugees feel welcome, and to call on MPs to support the Refugees (Family Reunion) Bill.

The quilt will be on show at Witney Refugee Action Group's music festival, Asylum Sounds, at Witney's Rock Barn on Saturday.