Brighton and Hove Albion's Tomer Hemed gives toys to Israel

Some 14 suitcases packed with toys were taken to youngsters in Israel by ex-Seagulls striker Tomer Hemed and Rabbi Efune from the Chabad Jewish community in Brighton.

Children sheltering from the conflict between Israel and Palestine will be handed the toys, which were donated by Jewish groups in Brighton.

Teenagers preparing the toys at Chabad House (Image: Chabad)

A spokesman for Chabad said: "14 suitcases filled with toys, love, and even a few tears from our community in South England will soon find their way into the hands of children sheltering in southern Israel.

"To everyone who contributed, donated and purchased toys, your support has made this endeavour possible."

Read more: Fatboy Slim supports under-threat music pub with gig

Teenagers and volunteers packed and prepared the gifts for the children, who are currently sheltering from the ongoing war. Letters were sent alongside the toys with messages encouraging them to "stay strong."

Bags of toys at Chabad (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Rabbi Efune travelled with ex-Albion forward Tomer Hemed from Heathrow last week to deliver the toys.

The Israeli footballer played for Brighton and Hove Albion between 2015 and 2019, through its promotion to the Premier League in 2017 and now plays for Israeli Premier League club Hapoel Be'er.

A Chabad spokesman added: "In these challenging times, witnessing the unity of the Jewish people coming together to care for one another is truly heartwarming.

"We are not just a community, we are one big family.  Together, we continue to make a difference and spread love far and wide."