READERS have probably seen pictures from the Burma cyclone aftermath and will probably be aware that the Burmese military regime has been putting its own interest ahead of the lives of many survivors by delaying entry of aid from the international community, much of which is lying unused in neighbouring countries.

Burma is one of the worst countries in the world for human rights abuses. The situation is appalling for most who live there - and is getting worse.

One small ray of light is the great help being given to the people of Burma by many in the North-East of England.

The region's trade unions are helping their Burmese counterparts, who have to do much of the work normally undertaken by government, such as training the workforce, while also being among the main human rights defenders.

They are also organising aid to go to the Federation of Burmese Trade Unions, which they know will get to the people who need it.

North-East schools and churches have also given generously to schools and clinics for refugees from Burma, who have been forced to flee to Thailand, through the locallybased Burmalink UK.

I hope people from our region continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Burma.

Peter Sagar, Newcastle.