Donations from British Jews have poured in to help deal with the aftermath of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, as World Jewish Relief launched an emergency appeal, raising £10,000 on the first day of its appeal.

Israeli relief workers from IsraAID and ZAKA have headed for Japan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "The people of Israel express their deep sorrow over the tragedy in Japan, and will provide any help that will be required."

Rabbi Antonio Di Gesù of the Jewish Community of Japan said: "Our building withstood the hits, it was scary to see it sway, but thank God, there is no damage." The community is establishing a fund to assist the quake victims. Japan Chabad's Rabbi Mendy Sudakevich has organised a bakery in Sendai, the city hit worst by the quake, to give out free bread and has organised 50,000 rations from the US. He said: "In addition to our prayers, all of Japan needs assistance."