The Countess of Wessex's Pakistan earthquake appeal

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT IS ISSUED BY THE PRESS SECRETARY TO THE QUEEN

The Countess of Wessex's appeal for victims of the recent earthquake has resulted in 200 boxes of blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothing being sent to Pakistan.

Public collections took place at four Tesco stores and extra donations were collected by Rotary International. Abels Moving Services donated packaging materials and Royal Jordanian Airlines donated the flight to Pakistan.

The Countess of Wessex's appeal was launched on 11 November 2005 with the flight scheduled for 19 November 2005. In just one week the public have donated thousands of warm garments which will be invaluable to people in Pakistan displaced by the earthquake.