An estate agent has launched an urgent appeal to help its neighbouring communities in Cumbria following the flood disaster.

Angela Todd, sales director of Goldfinch Estate Agents in the north-east, is appealing for gifts that would be of practical help to people forced out of their homes in the neighbouring north-west region.

She is appealing for items including baby food, pet food, toiletries, blankets, duvets and torches.

Angela and her husband Trevor will be driving the 60 miles or so to the Lake District this weekend and delivering the donations at drop-off points.

She went on local radio yesterday to publicise the appeal and said it has already received considerable support from members of the public.

Any agent in the South Shields area who would like to contribute practical donations can drop them off at Goldfinch Estate Agents.

Their offices are at 59 Fowler Street, South Shields, and inside Asda at North Road, Boldon Colliery, Tyne & Wear.

Please help, as it would be great to see agents pulling together.

EYE would also be keen to publicise other initiatives, and also to know how agents within the flood-hit areas are coping.

Please let us know if our community of agents and industry suppliers across the UK can help or support you in any way.