A teacher caught up in the chaos of the Indian earthquake has launched an appeal to rebuild the region's shattered education system.

Greta Jackson, from Alfred Street, Wantage, was working with volunteers on an education project in the western state of Gujarat when the area was devastated by last month's quake.

About 20,000 people are feared dead and more than 150,000 injured following the disaster, with thousands more left hungry and homeless.

Mrs Jackson, a grandmother, who previously taught at schools in London, was helping with a training programme for primary school teachers at Gujarat's Sardar Patel University, when the earthquake hit. Although the university was on the fringe of the affected area, the tragedy had a profound effect.

The disaster coincided with India's Republic Day holiday and many of the trainees on Mrs Jackson's course had returned to their homes for the break.

She said: "I was having my shower when the floor began to vibrate. My first thought was that music was causing the vibration, but then I realised that the concrete floor was moving and that this was an earthquake. I ran downstairs from the second floor, wearing only a towel and a shawl. I was frightened but not hurt.

"We had no idea how many trainees would return or whether it would be possible to work. Most did come back and those from badly affected areas were clearly in shock. Many came simply to ask permission to return to their families.

"Later still they returned again telling their stories. They expected to resume teaching as soon as possible."

She added: "The teachers recognise that they must get the schools going again and not just for educational reasons."

She urged people to help re-build the shattered education system by sending books.

She added: "Books are always a problem in India and this year there will be no money for them. There is especially a need for children's books for general education as well as stories. I can guarantee they will reach the schools and will be highly appreciated."

All books should be posted or taken to the Vale and Downland Museum, Church Street, Wantage.