North East unites to help millions starving in East Africa
Events have been taking place in the North East to raise money for the millions affected by the food crisis in East Africa.
An appeal has been launched by The Disasters Emergency Committee, which is made up of 13 different charities.
On Tyneside, a collection of churches encouraged donations at their regular soup lunch.
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) urgently needs more funding to reach those urgently in need of food, water and medical treatment.
In South Sudan, Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia, drought and conflict have left more than 16 million in the region not knowing where their next meal is coming from.
The DEC appeal comes after ITV News highlighted the plight those in need through its Fighting Faminecoverage.
DEC Chief Executive Saleh Saeed said: "Hunger on a massive scale is looming across East Africa.
"More than 800,000 children under five are severely malnourished and without urgent treatment are at risk of starving to death.
For more information on the DEC East Africa Appeal visit www.dec.org.uk or call the 24-hour hotline on 0370 60 60 610.