THE Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, today called for prayers and practical help for the people of Kosovo.

Dr Hope said as patron of the European Children's Trust and someone who had lived and worked in eastern Europe, he was "greatly saddened" by current events.

"I am writing to more than 20,000 churches asking them to pray for the victims of this war and to support the work of The European Children's Trust as they help those families torn apart by this terrible tragedy.

"I would like the British public to add their prayers and their support to this vital work.

"Most importantly, however, we must pray that the warring factions can be brought back to the negotiation table as soon as possible and that a resolution is found to bring peace to all in Kosovo."

He asked anyone who could help by making a donation to the trust to call them on 0171 248-2424.

Meanwhile, the Bishop of Guildford, the Right Rev John Gladwin, is calling for a 10-day halt in the bombing campaign as a mark of respect for the Christian calendar.

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