COMMUNITY leaders in Trowbridge are organising a collection of clothing and other items for survivors of the earthquake crisis in Syria and Turkey that has led to more than 17,000 people being killed.

The combined death toll from Monday’s devastating earthquakes, which were magnitude 7.8 on the Richter Scale, has risen to 17,176, including a total of 3,162 people reported dead by Syrian government officials and a rescue group in the rebel-held north-west of the country.

They are urging residents with items to spare, including for babies and women's toiletries, to donate them on Sunday (February 12) between 9am and 6pm at the Studley Green Community Centre in Lambrok Road.

A spokesperson said: “The collection for the Turkey and Syrian Earthquake Crisis will go to The Bristol Turkish Community group who are delivering to the affected areas.

“Collection boxes are also in place at this time and also at Giftbox, 5 Silver Street, Trowbridge. All money collected will be going to Lions Clubs International Foundation via Trowbridge Lions Club.

“We also need volunteers for the day to help with sorting the donations. Please contact Studley Green Community Centre on 01225 769187 if you are able to help with this."