GWENT clubs from grassroots to the professionals like Newport-Gwent Dragons are being asked to back a major new initiative aimed at helping victims of the tsunami disaster.

The scheme, the first of its kind in Britain, is aimed at raising funds to help with sport in the Asian countries hit by the giant wave six months ago.

And major Welsh sports stars have come out in support of the appeal, which has already seen Glamorgan County Cricket Club donate £3,000 to start it off.

On the weekend of September 10 and 11, schools and clubs are being asked to help out on the drive, co-ordinated by charity Sport4sport.

Welsh Assembly sports minister Alun Pugh kick-started the drive in Cardiff yesterday.

He said: "Sport is such an important part of many people's lives and is a vital part of the nation's identity. Sport4sport is an excellent example of how Tsunami Relief Cymru and its partners are helping people still coping with the aftermath of the Boxing Day disaster to rebuild their lives."

Glamorgan Cricket captain Robert Croft will add his weight to the initiative.

Mr Croft said: "I played Test cricket in Sri Lanka for many years and I understand how important it is to the people who live there. Any help we can give we will and I wish this initiative the best of luck."

Tsunami Relief trustee Peter Phillips, who is co-ordinating the weekend, said it is hoped the project will raise enough money to help everyone from schoolchildren to local clubs in Asia.

He said: "The Welsh sporting contingent of stars have embraced this project and I am confident that we can come together to make a real impact on many lives."