THOUSANDS of people are believed to have died in the devastation in the Phillipines.

It is a tragedy that has wrought havoc, leaving children without parents and splitting up hundreds of families.

On the streets, dead bodies are scattered around.

It is a heart-breaking situation – and one that is difficult to address.

But the people of Oxfordshire, like everywhere else, can help – and must.

Today, we reveal how donations and relief are on the way.

It will not bring back lost loved ones or reconstruct in an instant ravaged communities.

Yet the money has to come through – and fast, with the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal topping £23m yesterday.

Basics are needed, from tents and clothes to medicine and food.

Once every year or two, disasters like this flash on to our TV screens in what can seem like a ceaseless narrative of woe.

These, however, are urgent, pressing matters that are affecting thousands of ordinary lives.

So try to do your bit – and look at what you can do to help out.