CHURCHES in Otley have joined forces to help raise thousands of pounds for the victims of the devastating floods in Mozambique.

Congregations from all the town's churches have managed to raise more than £6,000 between them in just two weeks through collections.

Mary Vickers, Press spokeswoman for Our Lady and All Saints Church, said: "During last week, our parish collection for Mozambique doubled to more than £3,000. This included generous donations from folk in the town who are not regular parishioners but had heard or read about it and got in touch.

"I'd like to thank everyone for their donations."

Next Friday, the church will hold a family fast day, when people are asked to go without and give the money they save to the poor of the world.

The Rev Alistair Newton, of Otley Methodist Church, said he was pleased to support the appeal and to raise money for the victims.

"I would hope that we can help people in another country in their hour of need and a practical expression of this was our collection on Sunday," he said.

The Rev Graham Buttenshaw, vicar of Otley Parish Church, said he would like people to be more aware of the deeper issues such as global warming in these countries. And a spokeswoman for the Otley Council of Christian Churches added that she was pleased with the total, which was continuing to rise.

"The people of Otley have responded spontaneously and generously to the national appeal," she told the Wharfedale Observer. "This money will have already been sent to the various supporting agencies

The churches were answering the appeal of the Disaster Emergency Committee, which brings together numerous charities, including Christian Aid, British Red Cross, Oxfam, Age Concern, Help The Aged, Save The Children, Tear Fund, CAFOD and World Vision.

Donations can be sent through any of the above agencies or direct through a donation line on (0870) 6060900.

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