A CREW from RAF Brize Norton is delivering vital aid to thousands of people stranded by the Pakistan floods.

A Boeing C-17 Globemaster aircraft operated by 99 Squadron has been called in by the Department for International Development (DFID) to transport supplies to the UN, including tents, food and health kits.

Personnel from 99 Squadron are working day and night to ensure aid reaches as many people as possible.

Last night county councillor Saj Malik praised the squadron’s effort and renewed his appeal for people in Oxfordshire to donate money to the relief effort.

Wing Commander Simon Edwards, who commands 99 Squadron, said: “I am pleased that the squadron has been able to help DFID in this important task and that we are able to use the C-17’s world class lift capability in support of their vital humanitarian mission to Pakistan.”

The C-17 is the RAF’s largest transport aircraft, capable of carrying 73,800kg of freight and 138 personnel over distances up to 8,300km.

The floods, which struck Pakistan two weeks ago, have killed at least 1,600 people and displaced more than 20 million.

The country’s Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, this week warned of the danger of water-borne diseases like diarrhoea and dysentery.

It is also feared the monsoon season could last for at least another month, with floods hitting parts of the country not yet affected.

George Turkington, head of DFID’s Pakistan office, said: “It’s great that the DFID, RAF and the UN are working together to help people in Pakistan whose homes and lives have been washed away by the floods.

This is the second RAF flight we have called in, this time bringing items for the UN, including tents, food and health kits.”

On Saturday Muslims in Oxford held collections at mosques around the city.

Mr Malik, county councillor for East Oxford and city councillor for Cowley Marsh, said more than £10,000 has already been sent to Oxford-based businessman Shaquat Quershi, who is one of a team of volunteers in Pakistan.

He said: “Mr Quereshi is sending us back picture evidence to show exactly how the money is being spent.

“It is a great effort on behalf of these servicemen and women, who will be making a real difference in the country of my origin.

“But we still need much more money. This is a mega disaster and it needs a mega response.

“I would urge people to donate whatever they can afford to help the millions of people affected by the floods.”

To donate, email Mr Malik at sajjad.malik@oxfordshire.gov.uk