PEOPLE in the Wee County were quick to rally around and send emergency aid to tsunami-hit Indonesia, where the death toll has reached around 2,000.

First-response came from the Rotary Club of Alloa, which sent two sturdy boxes of supplies for survival after a magnitude 7.5 earthquake off the coast triggered waves of up to 10ft, sweeping through Palu on Sulawesi island last month.

Working with Rotary International, the local club sent two ShelterBoxes to the devastated area as soon as word reached the Wee County.

The packages contain a robust tent, mosquito net, tool kit, stove, cooking pots, water filter and there is even a filled school bag as well as a teddy for a baby.

Rotarians on the ground are identifying families in need of support, helping to distribute the boxes which contain temporary homes.

Norrie Rolland, convener of international service at Alloa Rotary Club, said: “Because we continuously raise money in our community for both local and international causes, we were ready to fund ShelterBoxes as soon as news broke about this tragedy in Indonesia.

“Members here are offering Clackmannanshire folks a wee look at what goes in to a ShelterBox, so they can see for themselves how useful this might be if you suddenly lose your home and all your possessions.

“So, thank you to everyone who donates when they see the Rotary logo – you can be sure your money will be well spent.”

The natural disaster destroyed thousands of homes, hospitals, hotels and a shopping centre on Friday, September 28, with a landslide blocking the main road into the city and putting a key bridge out of action.

Thousands have since died, many more are missing and feared dead, while survivors are growing increasingly more desperate for food, fuel and water.

Rotary International works in partnership with ShelterBox to provide quick practical assistance, hope, security and the means to recover following disasters.

Anyone wishing to donate to the Rotary can call treasurer Bill Aikman on 07864 569 484 and leave a message.