The British Red Cross has launched an appeal to help tens of thousands of people left homeless by the recent earthquake in Turkey.

Volunteers and staff from the Turkish Red Crescent – one of the Europe’s best-equipped earthquake response organisations – have been working around the clock for three days to help survivors.

Funds from the British Red Cross appeal will be used to support the work of the Turkish Red Crescent, and help provide thousands of survivors with temporary shelter, including tents and blankets.

“Hundreds of people have been confirmed dead, thousands are injured and tens of thousands of people have been made homeless,” said Katy Attfield, British Red Cross head of disaster management.

“The area affected is mountainous, it’s freezing, and making sure survivors have protection against the elements is vital for keeping them safe.

“The Turkish Red Crescent is doing an incredible job, and as the scale of the disaster becomes clear, there is an important role for us to support them financially and with supplies as they respond to this tragedy.”

To donate to the British Red Cross Turkey Earthquake Appeal, go to:

www.redcross.org.uk/turkeyearthquake  or call 0845 054 7202