Town unites in a common cause (From Warrington Guardian)

Town unites in a common cause

GENEROUS Biddulph fund-raisers have joined forces to provide support for the people devastated by the Indian Ocean earthquake.

Hundreds of pounds have this week been pouring in after the town's churches, businesses and community groups united to help victims in the disaster zone.

The town's workers and residents joined the rest of the country on Wednesday in observing a three-minute silence, and the flags at the Town Hall were at half-mast.

Staff at the Red Cross shop, on Well Street, collected more than £500 in the first few hours of fund-raising, and money and other goods continue to pour in.

Anita Birchenhall, the shop's manager, said: "I think people have been so upset by what has happened, and they are doing anything they can to help.

"People have been bringing in so many items, and donations continue to come in."

St Lawrence's Church and St John's Church, Knypersley, are holding special collections at this weekend's services, and a number of local businesses, including the Biddulph Arms, Kwik Save and Somerfield, have collection tins for their customers.

Biddulph Rotary Club has also joined other Rotary clubs across the country to prepare emergency boxes for the earthquake victims.

The boxes will contain essential items that families need in the aftermath of a disaster.