Newham Council has joined up with its German twin town Kaiserslautern - which has links with a district of Tokyo - to support the people of Japan in the wake of the devastating earthquake and tsunami. The effect of this huge natural disaster will continue to be felt for many months and years to come.

Since the earthquake a month ago on March 11 more than 8,000 people have died in the disaster, thousands have been injured and at least 12,000 are missing.

The British Red Cross is helping to support the Japanese Red Cross in coordinating relief for the thousands of people affected. Residents can help support the Japanese people by donating at www.redcross.org.uk