A project which provides vital aid to war-torn Kosovo has made a desperate appeal for cash to get a lorry through to one of the worst-hit areas of the country.

The Ark Project - which was set up by Clacton Jubilee Rotary Club with help from the Harwich Environmental Action Team - is ready to load up the vehicle with goods collected for the mercy mission.

But it has been hit by a new charge brought in by officials in Albania.

Graham Crame, a member of Clacton Jubilee Rotary Club's international committee, said the problem first arose when they sent two containers out just before Christmas.

He said: "Both containers were impounded by the authorities in Albania and we were charged well over £1,000 more than we had budgeted for to get them through. It seems that neighbouring countries are just cashing in on the situation.

"Basically it used up all our funds and we now need at least £1,500 to get the lorry and goods through to the people who desperately need them."

The vehicle has been bought by a Kosovan refugee, Imer Nishevci, who is based in London, and is to be loaded with clothes, toys, bedding and other items by the Ark Project.

The truck will be going to Obiliq - an area which has been destroyed during the fighting - and Malisheva where the aid will be distributed.

Once empty, the lorry will stay out there to help with the extensive rebuilding programme.

"The people out there are living in sub-zero temperatures and we have the goods ready to help them," added Mr Crame, who lives in Harwich.

"It is sitting there waiting to go but we just need the money to get it through the authorities and out to the people."

Eileen Tyrer, of the action team, said it was a very frustrating situation. "I find it hard to believe that the Albanians are making these charges even though they know it is humanitarian aid," she added.

Any firm or individual who wants to donate should contact Mrs Tyrer on 01255 503886 or Rob Smith on 01255 421090.

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