Sir.-I would like to say a very warm thank you to Gazette readers.

Your support for the children affected by the Boxing Day tsunami in south east Asia has been overwhelming, raising an amazing £10,014.

And once Gift Aid has been added, this total will be significantly higher.

These funds will go a long way towards UNICEF's work to rebuild children's lives.

UNICEF was there when the tsunami struck and the quick response from Gazette readers meant we were able to act immediately to provide water, medical assistance, shelter and other support to the areas most affected.

As a result of your generosity, we have been able to help survivors cope with the catastrophe that has shattered so many lives. Together we have distributed emergency medical kits, provided clean water and sanitation, helped get children back to school and registered and protected children from unscrupulous child traffickers.

Together we are providing support for traumatised children, helping them to come to terms with the emotional upheavals through art, theatre and play.

I have recently returned from a visit to the affected areas on the coasts of Sri Lanka. It was a moving experience and quite different from any other emergency I have known.

The sudden and inexplicable destruction of a sea which was always a source of livelihood has had an unimaginably traumatic impact on its survivors.

We will continue to do all we can to ensure children are cared for on an ongoing basis.

I have been overwhelmed and touched by the immediate outpouring of support from readers of The Gazette. It means so much to all who have been affected.

We really value your partnership in enabling this to happen.

-David Bull, executive director, UNICEF UK.