The work of the Margate-based charity KASTDA offers a beacon of hope to children in Sri Lanka orphaned by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

Since the disaster grabbed the world’s attention, volunteers from the Kent Association of Sri Lanka Tsunami Daruo - 'daruwo’ means children in Singhalese - have raised more than £30,000 for the education and social welfare of more than 100 children.

At a simple ceremony at Margate’s harbour arm on Boxing Day, a group of members remembered those who had perished four years ago across south east Asia, and tossed a wreath onto the icy waters in commemoration.

President David Fletcher underlined the importance of the work of the charity and said that it is a long-term project aimed at giving orphans hope and education.

North Thanet MP Roger Gale, who is patron of the charity, missed the ceremony for the first time.

In a statement read out by Mr Fletcher, the MP said: “I should like to thank all of those who work so hard to raise the money that continues to pay for the children that we are endeavouring to assist.

“We have said, and we know, that this is a long-term committment but we also know that it is exceptionally worthwhile. The work of KASTDA is making a real difference to the lives of real young people who represent the future of Sri Lanka.”