AN INDIAN community has launched an appeal to raise £10,000 to help survivors of the Gujarat earthquake.

Kish Shah, secretary of Cleveland's Hindu Cultural Society, said: "We have been contacted by many churches and voluntary groups across Teesside, all wanting to help.

"We have been overwhelmed by the warmth of their compassion and desire to help. The full effects of this tragedy will sadly last a long time, with hundreds and thousands of people suffering as a result."

Mr Shah said many Teesside Asians have relatives living in the earthquake zone.

Cheques can be sent to the Hindu Cultural Society Earthquake Fund, at 54 Westbourne Grove, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough, TS3 6EF, or paid into Barclays Bank, sort code 205674, account number 20396958.