A PLAN to protect two north Suffolk communities in the event of an emergency is in need of a �400 donation.

Volunteers behind the Southwold and Reydon Community Emergency Plan are appealing for money to pay for the printing of plans and the installation of radios across the two parishes.

The community emergency plan group undertook the project to help the area cope with flooding, snow and ice, as part of a government initiative encouraging communities to have an emergency response.

Simon Tobin, lead coordinator of the group, said: 'We were grateful to receive a small amount of start-up funding but we still require approximately �400 to cover the cost of printing, and the rest of the equipment for the boxes, and we are hoping that local donors may be able to help.'

The group, consisting of local volunteers and councillors, aims to work with the emergency services and the joint emergency planning unit to provide local knowledge and support in the area.

Chris Ure, who has helped collate the plan, said: 'There has been a tremendous amount of goodwill with churches and village halls offering the use of their premises in an emergency, and local businesses committing to provide us with equipment and services.

'A very strong community spirit has resulted in this plan finally becoming a reality.'

The published plan will be placed, with a radio, in emergency boxes throughout the two parishes.

The community resilience agenda is led by the civil contingencies secretariat within the Cabinet Office.

If you would like to make a donation to the group, contact Simon Tobin on 01502 725153 or 07796402519.