A year ago Kosovar refugees now living in York still had homes.

Kosovar refugees decorate their Christmas tree in the Howe Hill Hostel in York. From left are Mirsim Zeqiri, Vlora Fetahu, Raba Fetahu, Mustaf Fetahu and Luljeta Sllamniku

Now they are spending their first Christmas hundreds of miles away after fleeing the destruction of their native land.

Elheme Zeqiri and her four children Blerim, 16, Shukrie, 15, Shemsie, 12 and Mirsim, 11, are one of the families taking refuge in City of York Council's Howe Hill Hostel, Acomb.

They arrived in York six months ago after leaving their home in northern Kosovo and moving to a Macedonian refugee camp.

Elheme's husband Zeqir lost touch with them after being sent to prison. The family were reunited in York after he was released and made his way to Macedonia and then flew on to Doncaster.

Now the Muslim family are experiencing their first Christmas together and in safety since hostilities began.

Mr Zeqiri said: "I went into town yesterday and York looked so beautiful with all its decorations. Everybody works so hard to mark Christmas and they have really made an effort to make us feel a part of it.

"We are so appreciative of everything that has been done to make us feel happy and at home."

The religious implications of Christmas are not being pressed upon the refugees, but efforts are being made to include them in the festivities.

The hostel has been decorated, appeals for seasonal food and presents made and parties organised.

Mr Zeqiri said: "When we were at home in Kosovo we never would have thought we would be welcomed in this way. We have been treated so well and been made so welcome.

"We do miss our home, but things are still very bad there. I know everything we had has been completely destroyed. I speak to my brother in Kosovo who tells me people are sleeping in tents, and it gets so cold there. For us, this weather in York is mild.

"I think the situation will improve if the work continues, but I don't know how long it will take. With four children and no home I can't see us going back. If we had a house then we could, but life would not be easy."

Mr Zeqiri's children have now settled at Carr Junior and Queen Anne Schools where they speak enthusiastically about friends and Christmas parties.

Mr Zeqiri said: "We will always remember how these people in England have looked after us and done so much for us, and we wish everybody a very merry Christmas."

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