MORE than 1,500 items of clothing have been donated to flood victims in the Caribbean by an East Lancashire firm.

Altham-based uniform provider Simon Jersey, gave the clothes to the Mustique Trust Storm Relief Fund for flood victims in St Vincent, following a call to action from the British Red Cross.

The appeal came after the Caribbean island’s north and central regions were hit by devastating floods in December, causing severe damage to roads and houses.

At least eight people died during the storms over the Christmas period and in some areas the rain reached 1.5metres.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves cut short his holiday in London to deal with the crisis.

Simon Jersey, which employs more than 150 people, responded to the call for aid, providing 700 pairs of trousers, as well as 800 shirts and polo shirts.

The garments were distributed as emergency supplies among families that had lost all their belongings due to the excessive flood damage.

Chris Fothergill, general manager at the Syke Side Drive company said: “Many of those affected by the floods lost basic amenities, such as food and clothing, and are now reliant upon emergency supplies.

“At Simon Jersey, we’re committed to supporting charitable causes and we hope that our donation of clothes contributes towards the rebuilding of these communities.”

The Mustique Trust supports the development of sustainable local communities throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines, helping to improve opportunities for vulnerable children, young people and adults.