Three paediatric nurses visited a refugee camp in Calais to deliver medical supplies.

Lauran O’Neill, who lives in Harrow, and her colleagues Amy Jones and Elizabeth Bichard travelled to the camp known as the jungle on Thursday.

The nurses raised £1,200 towards the purchase of much needed medical supplies whilst attracting hundreds of donations of warm clothing and medication in little over three weeks.

They stayed at the camp for three days and assisted with the administration of first aid to refugees in need.

Ms O’Neill, 28, said they hoped to make a small difference to the terrible crisis.

She said: "We’re just three ordinary people who have been overwhelmed by the response from friends, families and local businesses supporting us in our efforts.

"We never expected that something that started out as a chat at our Christmas party has snowballed into this.

"We are truly grateful that so many people share our desire to help those in need – human beings living in terrible conditions a mere 20 miles from our coast."

None of the trio had any prior experience of organising or undertaking such a venture.

Ms O’Neill said they hoped their story will inspire others to volunteer, raise funds or head over there themselves.

She added: "Many of our colleagues were surprised to hear of our plans and are keen to come along on any subsequent trips – if we can do it, anyone can."