Reports now suggest that more than 21,000 people have been killed in the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, with many thousands more injured.

Nottingham City Council Leader, Cllr David Mellen, said: “These devastating earthquakes have caused an extreme humanitarian disaster. Help is needed to provide those that have survived with shelter, food and water so that they can begin to rebuild their lives.

“My thoughts are not only with those caught up in the aftermath of the tragedy, but with those from the Turkish and Syrian communities here in Nottingham.”

Locally, a collection of clothes and blankets is being organised by the Turkish Community with Rumi’s Table and Love Mercy Hope. Donations can be taken to 171-173 Hucknall Road, Nottingham, NG5 1FD (Nottingham Bazaar).

As a mark of respect, the lights of the Council House will be switched off on the evening of Saturday 11 February.

The Disasters Emergency Committee has launched an appeal. You can also donate money to a number of organisations working and helping those affected, including Doctors without Borders, the Red Cross, Oxfam and Unicef.