MARKET traders in Darwen have launched a cash appeal for victims of the tsunami in Asia.

Stallholders in the market hall decided they wanted to play a part in the rebuilding of the various countries devastated by the tidal wave, including Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, The Maldives and other parts of the Indian Ocean.

They will be collecting money on their stalls and at a central point, which they will then send off to help those who have lost their homes and who are mourning the deaths of relatives and friends.

Eileen Guy, who runs The Grotto market stall, said: "We wanted to do something with it being such a big tragedy affecting so many people.

"I know the Darwen couple Edward and Margaret White who have luckily just been found safe and well, they are customers of mine.

I received a card from them and I have since spoken to Edward's sister Diane today who said they were okay.

"We are hoping people will donate money to our appeal. They can get in touch with any of the stallholders on the market and we are also hoping to get a big barrel in the market hall near the School Street entrance which people can drop their money into."