THE effects of the south Asian earthquake has been felt by Warringtonians who have promised to do all they can to help victims of the disaster.

In the 48-hours after the quake hit Kashmir, members of the Warrington Islamic Association (WIA) raised £5,000.

Three truckloads of relief from the WIA has also reached one of the affected areas and has been distributed quicker than a lot of the aid from major charities.

Members of the centre have been working with people on the ground in Kashmir to ensure that aid gets out quickly and to those who need it most.

The members launched the fundraising effort as the quake has affected some families in the town who are still waiting for news of family and friends out in the regions.

The WIA is also urging people to donate clothes, tinned food and medical supplies to help support those still suffering in the aftermath of the quake.

All money and items donated to the WIA, based on Lockton Lane, will be sent to a team of volunteers in Azad Kashmir who have agreed to collect the aid supplies from Islamabad Airport and distribute them personally.

The epicentre of the earthquake was close to Muzaffarabad the capital of Azad Kashmi, the Pakistani-administered part of Kashmir.

The exact death toll will probably never be established but current figures estimate at least 20,000 people have lost their lives.

Mushtaq Ahmed, from the centre, said: "It is very difficult, in the face of such a tragedy, to make a visible impact, but the Muslim community in Warrington has taken the view that every little helps.

"Even if we save one life in the sight of Allah, it will be as if we have saved all of humanity."

The centre has also cancelled its traditional gatherings over Ramadan and will donate all money saved. Other sectors of the community have also begun fundraising. At the Sikh Temple on Dover Road, community members have already raised £900.

The next tranche of aid from the WIA will be sent to the area around Abbotabad in the North West Frontier Province.

Warrington's Mayor, Clr Hans Mundry, has passed on his support.

He said: "Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the south Asia earthquake, especially as so many children have been victims.

"Sadly, the family and friends of many Muslim members of our community will have been affected by this tragedy, but I know people across Warrington will do all they can to help. By coming together and helping those in need at times like this, our community can only become stronger."

hcartwright@guardiangrp.co.uk