THE West Somerset parents of a teacher who emigrated to the New Zealand town of Lyttelton, the epicentre of last month's devastating earthquake, are planning a fundraiser to help those affected by the disaster.

Jo and Rick Halliday, of Primrose Hill Holidays in Blue Anchor, will be holding an open day and mini-craft sale at their holiday centre on Saturday, March 12, from 10am.

Visitors will be able to have a look around and enjoy refreshments in return for a donation to Project Lyttelton, an appeal set up to help rebuild both the town and the lives of its residents.

The couple's son Nat, 35, emigrated to New Zealand last year to work as a teacher and thankfully both he, his wife and baby son Noah escaped the quake unscathed.

Nat told the Free Press Lyttelton had been "torn to shreds" by the 6.3 magnitude earthquake.

The High Street had gone and many of the town's iconic buildings destroyed, but the spirit of the survivors remained unbowed.

He said: "Lyttelton has an astonishing community. We are separated from the city of Christchurch and have a very independent spirit.

"Within hours Project Lyttelton had sprung into doing what they do so well.

"Volunteers were out and about checking up on the elderly, organising meals and making sure water got to where it was needed.

"Many people have had a red sticker placed on their doors meaning they are not allowed to enter buildings due to safety concerns but those who have the all clear are offering up rooms to whoever needs them.

"Lyttelton is a very special place, with an amazing community. We will get through this and come out the other side a stronger community." 

More information about Project Lyttelton is available on the website http://www.lyttelton.net.nz">www.lyttelton.net.nz.

Donations can also be made to the appeal through the website.