RELIGIOUS leaders have issued a heartfelt thanks to residents across Hampshire for their help in supplying vital aid to India.

But they have launched a fresh appeal this week for more money to help survivors of the massive earthquake re-build their lives.

Hundreds of containers of clothes and blankets were shipped from Southampton on Saturday, destined for the state of Gujarat which was reduced to rubble by the disaster.

Volunteers from across Hampshire descended on the Vedic Society Temple in Radcliffe Road, Southampton, last week, to help pack the supplies.

Raj Kumar Chadda, temple president, said thousands of pounds had already been donated by worshippers and well-wishers.

But he stressed much more was needed to help the tens of thousands of people in need of food, shelter and medicines following the disaster.

"While we have stopped asking for clothes, we will still be collecting money and people can come to the temple with cash or cheques."

Ramashwar Singh Hayer, president of the Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Onslow Road, said: "We are very thankful for everyone's help in all of this.

"We are grateful to all of the community members for what they've done.

"We do not need any more clothes now but we want to keep collecting money which we will give to the Red Cross."

Child Advocacy International has already raised hundreds of pounds for youngsters injured in the disaster.

The appeal was launched in memory of tragic Hampshire doctor Ashok Nathwani who was attending a conference on behalf of the charity when the quake struck.

Meggie Szczesny, charity co-ordinator, said: "Obviously we still need much more money to help children.

"We are appealing to everybody to give as much as they possibly can."

To pledge money to the appeal telephone 01782 712599 or 01782 610888.

Cheques can be sent to Freepost, Child Advocacy International, Dr Nathwani India Appeal, 79 Springfields Road, Trent Vale, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 6RY.

Charities across the country have now launched the Indian Earthquake Appeal.

Donations can be pledged on freephone 0870 6060 900.

Cheques can be sent to the DEC Indian Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London, EC38 9AA.

Donations can also be sent to Christian charities Food for the Hungry UK, 44 Copperfield Road, Bassett, Southampton, SO16 3NX or Samaritan's Purse International, The Shoebox, Unit 7 Woodside Road, Eastleigh, SO5 4ET.

Monksbrook newsagents, Hursley Road, Chandler's Ford, are also collecting money for the appeal.