Hats, coats and gloves will be keeping rough sleepers slightly warmer this Christmas after a large donation from the Muslim community.

Mohammed Omar, a board member for the Gardens of Peace Muslim Cemetery, presented the haul to the Welcome Centre in St Marys Road, Ilford last week.

About 300 items were donated including scarves, coats and trousers among other items.

Mr Omar, 55, said: “It is extremely important because in our religion we are taught that it is our duty to help anyone who is less well off than ourselves.”

“Homelessness does not only affect one faith community and we are happy to assist in any way possible.”

Sonia Lynch, manager at the Welcome Centre which gives homeless people support ranging from medical assistance to new clothes, said she was grateful for the donation.