SIR,

The humanitarian crisis arising from the conflict in Syria is becoming increasingly urgent by the day.

Last month I travelled to Jordan, where I witnessed first hand the desperate plight of the Syrian children who have had to flee the escalating violence.

Imagine having to leave your house under the cover of darkness, with nothing more than the clothes you are wearing, in order to try to take your children to a place of safety; that nightmare has become a reality for many of the families that are seeking shelter in Jordan and the neighbouring countries.

Unicef UK has launched the Syria Children's Appeal to help the children who are most at risk as this humanitarian crisis continues. Unicef receives no money from the UN budget and we rely entirely on voluntary donations. We need your help, and we need it now. £5 could provide water for a week for a family in Syria, so please text the word DONATE to 70099 to give £5 now. You can also visit http://www.unicef.org.uk/syria">www.unicef.org.uk/syria.

This is a real and immediate crisis for the children of Syria. I urge you to give whatever you can to help us alleviate their suffering.

David Bull

(Executive Director, Unicef UK)