Five homes are to be bought in Exeter for refugees from the war in Afghanistan, some of whom put their lives on the line to work with the British Army.

The government and Exeter City Council will jointly fund the £1.5m project.

The Home Office is currently funding 'bridging' hotel accommodation in Exeter and Exmouth for, as of last month, 24 Afghan households consisting of 52 adults and 42 children.

But this cash is due to end this month, and households will then be able to approach the council as being homeless.

Homeless applications from Afghan households are currently very low, but are expected to increase.

Cllr Diana Moore (Green, St David's) added: "It is very important for us to say that refugees are welcome in this city. These people have had to move here because they supported the British Army in Afghanistan, and because of that their lives are at risk.

"We very much welcome these families to Exeter and hope they remain a long-term part of the community."