THE people of Kent's county town have been praised for their generosity in the aftermath of the tsunami disaster.

Carole Sutton, manager of the Red Cross charity shop in Bank Street, Maidstone, said almost £2,000 and dozens of bags of clothes had been donated by townspeople to date.

"The donations have been coming in fast and on Monday we counted 80 bags of clothes just in one day," she said. "People in Maidstone have been so generous."

Since the earthquake and subsequent massive waves which devasated islands and countries across Asia on Boxing Day, each Red Cross shop has been given list of items needed for the British survivors arriving home at airports, such as warm unisex clothes and blankets.

Now the charity shops are being asked to help provide clothes and supplies for the victims in Asia.

"Our Red Cross volunteers are out there assessing what the people need and we are getting feedback on a daily basis," said Mrs Sutton.

"I am expecting a demand for summer clothes soon instead of winter ones and when the demand comes we will be ready for it."

She added: "I would like to thank all those who have made donations and urge people to continue."

Donations can also be made by phoning a general number for the DEC Earthquake appeal on 0870 6060900 or by post to DEC, POBox 999, London EC3A 3AA.

They can also be made online at DEC.org.uk