EARTHQUAKE aid workers have been stunned by Turkey refusing to accept tons of clothing collected locally.

Volunteers from a Tyldesley social club took in and sorted 18 tons of blankets and used clothing specifically to help Turkish disaster survivors after befriending locals while holidaying there.

But they now have no idea where most of the donations are destined - although they will be distributed to European disaster areas. "When I rang to let Turkish Airlines know we had a lorry-load of stuff to deliver they announced they had stopped free shipments. lt would have cost £14,000 to send," said collection organiser Joe Gorringe of Astley and Tyldesley Miners Welfare Club.

Nor were the Turkish Embassy able to assist.

"It seems they couldn't help us trying to help them," said a baffled Mr Gorringe.

"The problem is they don't have the infrastructure in Turkey to properly distribute aid items. Perhaps charities should concentrate on setting-up proper distribution centres."

He praised the Journal-land community for answering calls to help.

"We were inundated with goods - people were only too eager to help.

"We had over £1,000 donated by Westleigh High School and almost daily deliveries of goods from Sacred Heart School at Hindsford.

"The response was marvellous, even though the Turkish situation proved to be a disappointment."

Eventually charity workers contacted International Aid and local haulier Austin Wilkinson did a cheap-rate drop at the Leyland aid centre.

Now the clothing will be distributed to disaster victims in Europe, but not necessarily Turkey.

But, undeterred by setbacks, Joe is still determined to help out. Part of the Westleigh High donation has gone to pay for bleach and disinfectant supplied at cost price from Delmarco in Leigh.

"That is definitely Turkey-bound," he said.

Then there's the problem of 300 pegless tents picked-up in France and destined to house the homeless. Soon sorted.

"I've managed to get 3,000 tent pegs at a bargain price from Bond Caravan Company in Leigh," said Joe.

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