It has been set up by the town's branch of Lions International.

Club spokesman Les Sage said offers of help were already come in from other Lions Groups and other charitable organisations and the town's branch of Morrisons supermarket has agreed to collection points being set up in its town centre store.

The club is also asking for help from its national and international parent group which is hopes will be forthcoming within a few days.

Mr Sage said the Lions did not want to tread on the toes of the County Council or any other official organisation involved in the recovery operation, but felt it was important to get a fundraising appeal under way as quickly as possible.

Club Treasurer Simon Pringle said "There will be a lot of things people need replacing, including furniture and cleaning up houses, and we are quite happy to provide manpower where it is needed.


"We are working with the other community service organisations to provide practical, physical and financial assistance for needy flood victims.

"This will initially involve a local combined Street collection and then as details become known it is hoped to arrange help to clean houses or even just washing affected clothing.

"It will be very much trying to tackle problems as they come to our notice.

Lions President Graham Tait said: "We are committed to helping the townspeople of Morpeth and will do everything we possibly can to help in the aftermath of this disaster."

An account has been set up at the Morpeth branch of Natwest Bank. The details are: Sort code 54.10.45, Account. Morpeth Lions Club Flood Victims Appeal, Account No. 17540321.