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The Bishop of Oxford is launching an appeal for funds today to help those affected by the floods across the Thames Valley .

The Rt Revd John Pritchard is asking people in the Thames Valley to give generously to help the relief efforts in the aftermath of the floods which have caused such devastation in Oxfordshire and Berkshire .

Bishop John says: “We have had offers of support and financial help from people across the country. By setting up this fund we hope to be able to target these gifts to wherever the need is greatest in the communities.”

People affected by the floods will be able to apply to the Diocese of Oxford Flood Appeal via the local clergy – whether or not they are regular churchgoers.

Bishop John says: “The church is in the heart of every community and dedicated to its well-being. The local clergy are in the ideal position to help identify needs on the ground.

“I am aware that people need a lot of support to get their lives together again – we know, for example, that many families do not have household insurance, or they need to buy new white goods in a hurry. I’m hoping that through this fund we will be able to help in a practical way as people begin to rebuild their lives.”

Bishop John is also encouraging people to give to the national Red Cross Flood Appeal which was launched earlier this week. Red Cross funds will be targeted towards the most vulnerable people, including isolated elderly people, families on low incomes and people with disabilities, working through local authorities and local charities.

Bishop John visited the Red Cross regional headquarters in Abingdon today to express his support.

He says: “I am tremendously impressed by the good work the Red Cross has done across the Thames Valley since the rain began to fall last Friday.

“I saw the Red Cross team in action at the Kassam Stadium earlier this week. Highly trained staff and volunteers are working to full capacity and we owe them a debt of gratitude. I am delighted to lend my full support to this appeal.”

Earlier this week Bishop John visited the Botley Road area of Oxford to talk to householders and members of the emergency services when the water was at its highest.

He said: “My deepest sympathy extends to everyone in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire who is caught up in these very difficult circumstances.”

To give to the Diocese of Oxford Flood Appeal use the donate form above or use this form if you would prefer to send a cheque.

To give to the Red Cross appeal, please phone 0845 054 7200, see www.redcross.org.uk/floodsappeal or visit your local Red Cross shop.

The Red Cross is also looking for more volunteers.

"In responding to the needs of those affected by the flooding, the British Red Cross has drawn on the services and skills of volunteers who provide community services throughout the county," says Madeleine Hammond, Volunteering Adviser for the Red Cross in the Thames Valley."

Drivers, home from hospital visitors, fire and emergency support volunteers and first aiders were all in great demand. Wheelchairs, walking and toileting aids were vital and the Red Cross’s medical equipment loan service was also fully active.

"All these services need more volunteers."

The Red Cross would love to hear from people who could help.  To find out more, phone 01235 552660 or email oxon@redcross.org.uk or visit www.redcross.org.uk.

An Open Day will be held at the Red Cross Oxfordshire office in Colwell Drive , Abingdon OX14 1AU on Wednesday 8 August from 2 to 4 pm and from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm.