Support is being sought for an appeal in aid of those affected by devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

Tens of thousands of people died and hundreds of thousands more have been left homeless after the quakes struck southern Turkey and northern Syria last week.

Labour MSP Paul O'Kane, who represents Helensburgh and Lomond as part of his West Scotland remit, has urged local people to back efforts by the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), made up of various aid agencies, to help survivors of the natural disaster.

He said: “The earthquake has inflicted devastation on entire communities. This is a real tragedy.

"I know this is a tough time financially for many families here but whatever you can donate to the DEC appeal would be greatly appreciated and will make a difference to people in Turkey and Syria.”

In Turkey, thousands of buildings, including hospitals and schools, have collapsed and infrastructure such as roads and energy supplies has been badly damaged.

Buildings have also been brought down in north-west Syria – an area which was already inhospitable and inaccessible after more than a decade of civil war and where medical facilities are severely limited.

Sally Foster Fulton, of Christian Aid Scotland, said charities involved in the DEC appeal are "so grateful" to everyone who has already donated.

She added: "The stories we're hearing from the survivors who have managed to escape the ruins of flattened and crumpled buildings without shoes and coats in the depths of winter are desperately sad.

"It is hard to grasp what they and their families are going through but what we do know is that, thanks to hugely generous support so far, help is already being delivered by 14 of our member charities in the region.

"They are providing hot meals, blankets, and medical aid.

"But we can do more with further donations. If you are able, please help."

To make a donation, click here.