AS many people in this area supported UNICEF's appeal for North Korea recently, I thought they might be interested to hear how our work to save the lives of children suffering from malnutrition is progressing.

I recently returned from two months in North Korea, which has been seriously affected by an acute food shortage due to a series of floods and a severe drought in 1997. I am pleased to say that I saw supplies of high-energy milk, medical equipment and winter clothing being delivered to nurseries, kindergartens and children's centres around the country.

Despite UNICEF's efforts, much still needs to be done. We estimate that many children remain at risk because they have little resistance to skin sores and infection. They also need to be provided with safe drinking water so they don't fall prey to diarrhoea.

For £1.50, up to 50 children could be provided with safe drinking water and soap to help prevent skin infections. I hope that in view of their past generosity, some of your readers will feel inspired to respond to this new appeal.

Any donations will be gratefully received and can be sent to UNICEF, North Korea Appeal, 53 Lyme Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire SK7 6LH. Please make cheque donations payable to UNICEF.

YASMIN ZAMAN, UNICEF (UK)

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