WATFORD should be twinned with a community affected by the recent tsunami earthquake.

That was the message from Watford MP Claire Ward this week, who wrote to local authorities to ask them to consider a town twinning scheme.

She said: "While the British public have been remarkably generous in their donations, the long-term impact upon communities affected by the floods will be considerable.

"Many will need assistance for years to come in rebuilding their lives, their homes and their livelihoods. While international and charitable funds will be of huge assistance, there will obviously be a need for additional support."

She added she had been approached by residents who had suggested that as the town had a long established tradition of twinning, Watford should replicate this with a twinning arrangement in one of the badly hit countries.

Watford is twinned with five towns.

Watford's first link was formed with Mainz in 1956 at a time when both towns shared a strong connection with the print industry. Since then it has also forged links with Nanterre, France; Novgorod, Russia; Wilmington, US; and Pesaro, Italy Ms Ward said: "Not only would this allow residents to focus their donations and assistance but would help to foster important links and understanding for the future.

"While financial help will always be welcome, residents could donate other items much in need - books, clothes, tools, toys, etc."