A SCHOOL caretaker from the Philippines said it is “heartbreaking” to watch the devastation caused to his country by Typhoon Haiyan but fund-raising by pupils is a big help.

Johann Importante, who works at Swan Lane First School in Evesham, said it was hard to watch the news as he knew some people affected by the second-deadliest typhoon ever witnessed by the nation.

But the 39-year-old, who has been in Evesham for seven years, said he was pleased that pupils such as eight-year-old William Purser and the rest of the school were digging deep for the country.

“Every time I watch the news it is heartbreaking,” he said.

“Although my family are all right I have friends and class mates and their families are missing.

"My family, parents, brothers and sisters live in Negros – the storm didn’t hit as badly there. When I know the school is raising money for the victims I feel really happy people are supportive of my country.

“Yesterday he [William] told me he raised £64. I am very pleased he is doing that. I told him it is all a big help for food and clothing for the victims.”

William chose to hold a fundraising sale outside his father’s business, the Master Butcher in Avon Street, because of Mr Importante.

The youngster said: “What happened in the Philippines was really bad and I want to thank everyone who helped me raise money last weekend.

"This Saturday, I’m hoping to raise even more money offering sausage rolls, flapjacks and Christmas cookies to people shopping so please come to the stall and help me do it.”

Organisers of the Operation Christmas Child appeal in Evesham were also delighted by the efforts of residents moved by the scenes of devastation in the Philippines, who donated thousands of items at short notice to be taken to the Far East.

Teddies, blankets and clothes were among the items dropped in to the charity headquarters on St Richards Road which are now making their way to the needy.

Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child can be dropped in to Unit 13, St Richards Road, until the end of November.

In Pershore, nearly £3,000 has been sent in the last week by Pershore Rotary Club to the Shelter-Box charity following events and collections in the town.

A street collection, organised by Pershore Inner Wheel and Rotary Clubs, raised £860 followed by another collection that took place as the audience left Pershore Abbey after the concert given by Pershore Choral which raised £757.

The Rotary Club itself has donated £700 and they also teamed up some time ago with Abbey Park First School and raised £391 for ShelterBox, which has now also been sent.

The total continues to grow as Pershore Inner Wheel has now promised a further £50.