Since last Wednesday's devastating flash flood in Nepal, which swept through communities along the Bhote Koshi and Trisuli River valleys, we have been receiving calls and emails from Naturetrek customers concerned about our partners, naturalists and staff in Nepal, with whom so many of you have travelled over the past 40 years.

Whilst we are relieved to confirm that all of them, and their families, are safe, we continue to hear harrowing stories from others less fortunate, as well as accounts of the fear and uncertainty that still grip many communities in the affected areas. It is clear to us, from speaking with our friends in Nepal, that the scale of this disaster, and the loss of life is has caused, are far greater than current news coverage and official statistics suggest.

If you, like us, would like to do something to help those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods, please consider donating to the British Red Cross Disaster Fund. The British Red Cross is already working with the Nepal Red Cross Society on the ground, making this one of the best and quickest ways to get help to those most in need. We have set up a JustGiving page and pledge to match all donations made to our "Naturetrek Nepal Flash Flood Appeal" up to a total of £15,000, effectively doubling your donation. We hope that, together, we can raise £30,000 or more to help the communities of the Bhote Koshi and Trisuli valleys that have been devastated by this disaster.