Illustrious helps typhoon effort

Portsmouth-based, HMS Illustrious, is continuing its mission to deliver 500 tonnes of humanitarian aid in the Philippines.

The ship is stationed off the coast of the filipino island of Panay - as the crew focus their effort on dozens of smaller islands to the west - many of which had not received any aid since Typhoon Haiyan.

For the 950 people on-board, though, it means Christmas away from home. Well, ITV Correspondent, Dan Rivers is with them - and sent this

Helicopters from HMS Illustrious have begun to deliver aid, people and equipment to small Philippine islands devastated by Typhoon Haiyan over a fortnight ago.

The Portsmouth-based helicopter and commando carrier arrived in the region to the north of Panay on Monday and immediately began surveying nearby islands to assess their needs.

Recce teams were sent to three islands – Calagnaan, Canas and Bayas – and found extensive damage to homes and local infrastructure with little in the way of long term food supplies.

ITV Meridian presenter Amanda Piper has been speaking to Commander Kerry Harris of HMS Illustrious, as the ship continues to provide aid to the Philippines. The vessel arrived in the country on Monday 25th November.

Its crew are expected to still be in the Philippines over Christmas, assisting with the crisis relief effort after Typhoon Haiyan.

HMS Illustrious is about to arrive in the Philippines to help survivors of Typhoon Haiyan. The ship is loaded with 500 tonnes of supplies, including rice and water containers.

Illustrious also carries equipment which can turn sea water into drinking water. HMS Daring is already in the country helping the relief effort.