CHARITY shops in Penarth are backing a national fundraising campaign to help the people of Myanmar in Burma - the region devastated by Cyclone Nagris.

It is thought 1.5 million people have been affected by Nagris and in some coastal areas, an estimated 95 per cent of homes have been destroyed.

In response to the disaster, leading international aid charities the British Red Cross and Oxfam - who have shops in Stanwell Road and Windsor Road respectively - have joined forces to launch an emergency appeal to save lives.

Barbara Whittingham, deputy manager of Oxfam in Penarth, said: "There's certainly been a positive response from Penarthians.

"We've had some hefty monetary donations and local people have continued to bring in clothes.

"I think it's important to stress that money raised is being diverted to Burma for the DEC appeal, and will be going to the people on the ground.

"It won't be affected by the political situation out there."

The DEC is an umbrella organisation which represents 13 leading UK aid agencies, seven of which have offices in Wales.

DEC appeals are reserved for major disasters, which cannot be dealt with by in-country emergency aid mechanisms, and look to spend public donations effectively.

People across Wales have responded to the call for help and so far £200,000 has been raised from the appeal.

Richard Laydon, Chair of DEC Cymru in Wales, said: "I'm delighted that the Welsh public have recognised what a difference their donations can make and are continuing to give.

"Aid is getting through to over 900,000 people thanks to this generosity.

"The people of Myanmar are facing a humanitarian disaster and as time goes on we need to respond urgently.

"Please help us save even more lives in Myanmar," he added.

"The people of Penarth can help us by calling in to one of the DEC agency shops and giving us your financial donation.

"We need the support of the public to show that the world cares and to help DEC agencies keep people alive."

Donations can also be made at post offices, high street banks or by calling the donation line on 0870 60 60 900 (national call rates).

Visit www.dec.org.uk for more information.