A GWENT couple who set up an orphanage in Kenya spoke of their concern for children and friends as the country plunged into violent chaos.

More than 250 people have died in the troubles sparked by claims of a rigged presidential election.

Margaret and Geraint Stephens have raised £60,000 for street children in Kenya and set up the charity Cariad Kenya in 2004.

They helped build an orphanage and provide a farm and children's play area for more than 30 abandoned young girls in the village of Kikambala, near Mombassa.

The worst atrocity came two days ago when 50 people, half of them children, were killed when a mob set fire to a church in the western town of Eldoret.

Mr and Mrs Stephens started the charity after meeting Kenyan volunteer Anthony Mulonga through their son Andrew.

Mr Mulonga today sent the anxious couple a text message saying: "Things have not been so good here but we are safe.

"Food and basics have become too expensive and cannot be found. There is no public transport and communication is difficult.

"Please pray."

Mr Stephens, 60, said: "The text said they are safe but we would like to speak to them.

"Communication is very difficult at the best of times and we are concerned."

Mrs Stephens, 59, said gun shots had been heard by those at the home during the last week.

The couple plan to visit the home during the summer.

Thirty thousand Britons in Kenya were warned to stay indoors yesterday and travellers were advised not to travel to the country.