More than �2,000 of donations was collected by Muslim organisations around the borough in support of the homeless.

The Federation of Redbridge Muslim Organisations called on its 15 affiliated mosques, religious schools and organisations to help those in need.

Mohammed Asif, chairman of the federation, said: “We had two transit vans of donations with lots of tins and clothes donated from individuals. I was pleasantly surprised.”

The donations were taken to the Redbridge Assessment Centre, York Road, Ilford and the Salvation Army, Clements Road, Ilford.

Mr Asif said that he would like to increase the number of projects and level of community engagement the federation is involved in for the coming year.