Freshly baked gingerbread men made by concerned youngsters will go on sale today to raise money for victims of the Nepalese earthquake which has killed at least 4,000 people and left tens of thousands homeless.

Family and friends of the Nepalese community in Mitcham and Morden are among those missing after the massive earthquake devastated the country on Saturday.

School children from the Rowans School in Drax Avenue, Wimbledon, will sell home-made gingerbread men to parents this afternoon to raise funds for the Save the Children’s Nepal Earthquake Appeal.

Deependra Lama of the South London Nepalese and Ghurka Association (SLNGA) is anxiously awaiting news of his cousins and friends who are missing, and members of the organisation are holding an emergency meeting tonight to discuss how they can help in the relief effort.

Initial reports from the chairman Nur Thapa said there were no casualties from Merton although they would know more after this evening.

The group has launched an appeal for donations with a message on its website from Mr Thapa which said: "Namaste and I am sure that you are fully aware of the current situation of our mother land Nepal.

"We hope your relatives, friends and families are safe and fine back in Nepal.

"But our thoughts and prayer goes to families who are affected from the merciless earthquake that cost more human lives and properties in this modern society.

"Please keep in touch with your relatives, friends and families through phones, Facebook and other modern means of communication to make sure that they are safe and secured around Nepal."

The group was founded by the late Colliers Wood councillor Gam Gurung who was a Ghurkha solder, and grew up in the Himalayas.

The SLNGA champions the rights of Ghurkhas in the UK.

The Foreign Office has advised that any British Nationals in need of consular assistance call 020 7008 0000 or text NEPAL to +447860 010 026.

Have you been affected by the earthquake in Nepal? Contact the newsdesk on 020 8722 6336 or email Becky.middleton@london.newsquest.co.uk.