The Wrexham-based charity Operation Christmas Child is heading out to Dagestan in a plane carrying 48 tonnes of aid to help refugees who have fled the war in Chechnya.

The team, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, will be taking out vital supplies of food and clothing.

It is the charity's third visit to the region in the last 12 months - but it is the first time the charity has gone to Dagestan on the eastern side of Chechnya.

Spokesman Dave Cooke said they have not been allowed into the region by the British Government before.

The last visit he made was to Ingushetia on the south western side of Chechnya wher 180,000 refugees have fled.

Mr Cooke said the Wrexham team were the only aid people there. He said he will report back on what else needs doing in Dagestan.

The mission leaves on Sunday, 30 January and returns the following Tuesday.

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