DONATIONS have been flooding in for the East Africa Crisis appeal by generous Dorset Echo readers.

After receiving the latest cheques from readers, residents of West Dorset and business owners the total raised so far stands at £5,665.

We launched the appeal in conjunction with the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), an umbrella group for charities helping with the unfolding crisis.

It is raising money for more than 10million people in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and the newly-formed Republic of South Sudan have been left in need of food, water and emergency healthcare.

The worst drought in 60 years in parts of East Africa has devastated cattle and crops creating a humanitarian emergency, with problems expected to be compounded by a poor coming harvest.

The situation is now so serious that famine has been declared in two regions of Somalia, with other areas expected to follow.

Donations from the UK public to the DEC appeal to help people suffering from severe food shortages in East Africa have topped a milestone £30m.

Chief executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee Brendan Gormley said: “The UK public has been wonderfully generous since we announced our East Africa Crisis Appeal less than three weeks ago.

“Aid is getting through even in the toughest parts of Somalia but far more is needed. Our member agencies can save more lives if you will help. ”

One of the cheques received yesterday was a £100 donation from the Flintstones Guest House in Weymouth.

Co-owner Carole Cullen said: “We saw the awful images and just wanted to give money to a charity that is actually there working.

“It’s just so awful and we’re happy to help by donating to the appeal.”

• If you would like to help please send donations or cheques, made payable to the DEC East Africa Crisis Appeal, to Dorset Echo, Fleet House, Hampshire Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 9XD.