SURVIVORS of a devastating earthquake in Italy in which more than 275 people died, have been helped by Potters Bar charity men. As rescuers headed for the disaster zone in L Aquila, the town s Rotarians agreed to fund two shelter boxes with enough equipme

SURVIVORS of a devastating earthquake in Italy in which more than 275 people died, have been helped by Potters Bar charity men.

As rescuers headed for the disaster zone in L'Aquila, the town's Rotarians agreed to fund two shelter boxes with enough equipment to support the now homeless residents for six months.

Their Rotarian colleagues drove towards the epicentre and were met by locals from the Italian Rotary just hours after the quake struck.

Potters Bar man Roger Philpott said �1,000 was needed to fund the two boxes.

He said: "The victims now have somewhere to go so they don't go back into their houses.

"This is why Rotary is so wonderful, we have clubs in every country of the world."

Potters Bar Rotary Club raises cash for shelter boxes and other causes throughout the year.

It is celebrating its 50th year in October and is keen to gain new members.

* The club's next money-raising venture is a six-a-side football tournament on Sunday, June 7.

For more information call Mr Philpott on 01707 880017.