A CAMPAIGN group's bid to persuade the country against bombing Syria and to create 'solidarity' with refugees is gathering momentum.

Around 30 residents gathered at the Friends Meeting House, in the town centre, on Saturday evening to share a series of touching messages and pleas.

The meeting was organised following the creation of Facebook group 'Don't bomb Syria #solidarity with refugees', which has more than 230 members.

The group, which is determined to 'fight for global peace', is aiming to organise a peaceful march in the town against bombing Syria – an issue which looks set to come before Parliament.

Campaigners are also calling on residents to show their support to refugees amid the current crisis across the globe.

Warrington Young Labour chairman Josh Booth, 18, chaired Saturday's meeting and was encouraged by the response.

"At events like this there is always the worry that people will call for an end to violence without offering a realistic alternative," said Josh, who is also the Cheshire representative for North West Young Labour.

"The real victory of the night was having people from across the political spectrum come together to not only say that they oppose airstrikes and stand with refugees but to make plans for realistic change and positive action."

During the night he, along with others in attendance, urged residents to pressure Warrington's two MPs on both issues.

He added: "Personally, I will always choose to be on the side of understanding, but my choice is not enough.

"We are here today because we want to ensure that the UK collectively says that unnecessary military action will not be carried out in our name.

"The idea that violence is the only thing that works is possibly the most widely believed yet easily disproved falsehood in the world."

Also present on Saturday was a former Syrian resident, who spoke about his heartbreaking journey into the UK.

Labour councillor David Keane and TUSC councillor Kevin Bennett were also in attendance to show their support.

Cllr Keane (LAB – Penketh and Cuerdley) said: "I would like to plea to people in the room not to make this a political campaign – that won't bring the majority of people together.

"This is a real humanitarian issue."

The campaign group will be holding regular meetings and is set to organise a collection of Christmas presents to be sent to refugees.

For updates visit the 'Don't bomb Syria #solidarity with refugees' Facebook page.