There are many ways to donate money to the thousands affected by the earthquake disaster in Asia.

* The Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) is co-ordinating an appeal for aid in the disaster-hit region, representing charities including ActionAid, British Red Cross, Cafod, Care International, Christian Aid, Concern, Merlin, Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund and World Vision.

* Donations to the appeal can be made by calling 0870 6060 900, or by visiting www.dec.org.uk Donations can also be made on the individual charity websites.

* By the end of the week, people should be able to go into banks to donate cash or cheques made payable to the DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal.

* It is also possible to donate cash or cheques (made payable to Post Office Ltd) over the counter at Post Office branches.

* In addition, a "999" PO Box has been set up by Royal Mail to speed donations to the DEC appeal. Donations can be sent by post to: DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, LONDON, EC3A 3AA (Cheques made payable to DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal).

* To donate to Unicef, call: 08457 312312 or visit www.unicef.org.uk

* People can donate money at their local Oxfam shop, and also donate unwanted Christmas gifts for sale in the shops, which will raise money for Oxfam's work.