Council urges earthquake donations to go through DEC

West Berkshire Council is urging residents who wish to donate to help the earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria to do so through the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal.

The council executive last night (Thursday) held a minute’s silence in reflection for those affected by the disaster.

Council leader Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) said: “I have no doubt we have all been very shocked and saddened about the consequences of the earthquake in the early hours of Monday morning.

“As the death toll rises we see images of the significant challenges in the affected regions, as a result of the damage to critical infrastructure and the freezing conditions in which people are trying to survive.

“West Berkshire Council has an outstanding record of supporting displaced people and we will continue to do so by contributing as appropriate to any national response.

“In the meantime if residents wish to provide assistance the Disasters Emergency Committee has now launched an appeal bringing together 15 charities.

“If individuals wish to contribute, please follow the guidance of the charity commission to ensure that contributions are made safely.”