War in the Balkans: Appeal money reaches pounds 7m

THE INDEPENDENT'S Kosovo appeal has now reached pounds 340,000. The total raised in total by the Disasters Emergency Committee has topped pounds 7m.

The Independent launched the DEC appeal with its readers just over a week ago, prompting a massive response. The appeal is currently topping 1,500 letters a day and there have been over 45,000 calls to the hotline. The joint appeal has been organised on behalf of the British Red Cross, Christian Aid, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Children's Aid Direct, Concern Worldwide, Help The Aged, Merlin, Oxfam, Save The Children, Tearfund and World Vision.

Donations can be made to the appeal on 0870 6060900 or 0990 222233. Donations can also be sent to Disasters Emergency Committee Kosovo Appeal, PO Box 999, London, EC4A 9AA. Cash can also be given at banks, building societies and post offices. Cheques should be made payable to Kosovo Crisis Appeal. Updates on the appeal can be obtained via ITV Teletext page 520, or the DEC Internet site (www.dec.org.uk).