A CHARITY campaigner has highlighted how churches can help tackle the AIDS crisis.

Tim Creber says according to 2001 national statistics, every 18 days the equivalent of Lewisham's population - more than 24,8900 people - is infected with the deadly disease.

The 25-year-old, who works for Christian development agency Tearfund in London, is calling for all churches to unite with African churches to help stop the crisis.

A recent Tearfund report revealed church volunteers lack the international support to turn Africa's one million churches into "a single most effective weapon for halting the pandemic".

Mr Creber said: "International donors must urgently seek to understand the nature of faith, recognise churches' potential to be more effective and partner with churches in Africa to stop the spread of HIV.

"We must ensure funding quickly reaches the grassroots of African society where the money is most needed."

For more details on Tearfund, call 0845 355 8355.