A ROTARY club in Dorset is helping survivors of the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria by donating a number of water survival boxes.

The earthquake, which first struck a number of areas in Turkey and Syria on Monday, February 6, has seen more than 24,000 people die.

As reported, local rotary groups are rallying their efforts to raise aid in the hopes of saving lives.

Dorchester Poundbury Rotary Club says it is also working with Water Survival Box, a rotary affiliated charity, to help provide access to clean water.

Money has come from donations and the proceeds of a raffle at a recently organised quiz as well as funds already in the club’s charity account.

A water survival box provides water purification equipment as well as vital necessities including bandages, soap, toothbrushes, and tarpaulin.

A spokesperson for Water Survival Box said: “WSB trustees aim to provide at least 1,000 standard (boxes) in the coming weeks.

“Each box is designed to provide essential survival items for a family of five and, most importantly, the means of converting contaminated water into safe drinking water”

Those looking to donate to the appeal can do so at www.watersurvivalbox.org