Red Cross appeal for Japan earthquake relief

Manchester City Council is appealing to all Mancunians to offer their support for the aid effort following the earthquake and resulting tsunami in Japan .

Councillor Mark Hackett, Lord Mayor of Manchester , said: "The recent earthquake in Japan has caused untold destruction and destroyed many lives. I don't think it's possible not to be moved by the scenes on our televisions over the last couple of weeks, leaving at least 10,000 people dead and many more missing.

"Although the disaster is no longer hitting the headlines our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, lost their homes and their possessions. Many of these people are suffering themselves with over 300,000 people still living in evacuation centres and temporary housing.

"The relief will need to be considerable and I am proud that fire fighters and other personnel from North West are already in Japan working to provide aid at this most difficult of times. This disaster caused a huge amount of damage and I implore people to think about how they can make a difference.

" Manchester is a city of people who have a history of pulling together and working through times of hardship. Although there are many in this city who do not have much, their generosity is constantly surprising and I ask everyone to consider donating what they can to the Red Cross fund. All the money collected will be forwarded to the Japanese branch of the organisation.

"It is important that in times of crisis, such as this, we can come together in common humanity, show solidarity and extend our hand to people around the world.

"The true tragedy of this event is only now becoming apparent and every penny will make a difference."

To donate, visit http://www.redcross.org.uk/ or telephone 08450 53 53 53. You can also send cheques payable to British Red Cross to British Red Cross, Japan Tsunami Appeal, British Red Cross, 44 Moorfields, London , EC2Y 9AL .