Charity in cyclone relief effort

Many people are taking cover in state-provided cyclone shelters

A charity has set itself a target of raising at least £3m to help the victims of the Bangladeshi cyclone.

Birmingham-based Islamic Relief has already set aside £500,000 to respond to the emergency and has begun sending out materials for shelters.

The charity, which has been working in Bangladesh for more than 15 years, is also organising medical aid.

Cyclone Sidr struck the country six days ago, affecting a million families and killing at least 3,100 people.

The Bangladeshi government has appealed for international aid.

National fund raising manager for Islamic Relief, Habib Malik, said the biggest challenge survivors and aid-workers face is the lack of communication.

"The road structures are destroyed and huge trees are blocking the roads," he said.

Anyone wishing to donate should ring 0121 622 0622.