The people of Colchester have raised thousands of pounds for the victims of the Turkish earthquake - but more is still needed.

Money donated in collection boxes placed in bars, restaurants and take-aways around Essex is being counted this week and sent to the disaster zone to help alleviate the suffering of the survivors.

Thousands of people died and many more left homeless following the disaster. Turkish-born owner of Colchester's Fashion Cafe, Adnan Ademoglu, has organised local fundraising.

Mr Ademoglu, Hippodrome club owner Steve Peri, Bodrum kebab shop owner Kenan Karatay, Istanbul Delight kebab shop owner Mehmet Gerbaga, and Kings nightclub boss Dennis Cavil, have each donated up to £1,000 of their own money.

"We have got friends and people that we know involved in the area. We have lost friends and so many people have died in Turkey," Mr Ademoglu said.

"We are not going to bring them back but by doing this we will feel that we have not just sat down and watched it, we have done something to help."

Mr Adnan added: "The money will be used to buy food and medicines and anything at all which will help people rebuild their lives and ease their pain."

He encouraged anyone who still wishes to donate to do so before the end of the week when the money is due to be sent.

"I know a lot of people out there will be delighted to put something towards the fund. Even if it is just £10, or anything at all it will help," Mr Ademoglu said.

You can send your donation, or drop it in, to the Fashion Cafe, 2 St Botolph's Street, Colchester, Essex CO2 7DX.

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