The Bishop of Norwich has spoken of the horrors he witnessed on a recent trip to a hospital in Gaza.

The Rt Rev Graham Usher recently spent 10 days in Israel and Gaza just as the conflict broke out - returning to England earlier this week.

Launching an appeal to support medical efforts in the warzone, Bishop Graham spoke of the harrowing experience of visiting the war-torn region.

He visited the al-Ahli-Arab hospital in Gaza, a Christian-led facility which is offering emergency care to people of all faiths through the conflict.

Bishop Graham said: "I'm horrified by the situation continuing to escalate in Israel and Gaza.

"The atrocities by Hamas against Israelis are utterly abhorrent and their crimes are sickening.

"Of deep concern is the continuation of violence and destruction on all sides and the impending humanitarian impact on innocent Palestinians in Gaza - where I was last week."

Bishop Graham is appealing for people to offer financial support to the hospital in any way they can.

He added: "The facilities offered at the hospital are of vital importance for health in Gaza and it is known as a haven of peace and hope in the city."

"As we hold together in our prayers, Jews, Muslins and Christians in that region and long for pace with justice for all, I am appealing for fund to support the urgent work of the al-Ahli Hospital, or if it stops functioning, other medical support for civilians of Gaza."

Eastern Daily Press:

Suhaila Tazara, the hospital's director, said: "There is no water, no electricity, no food, no fuel reserves and no safe place to shelter.

"The wards of Ahli are full with injured patients and we are trying to help as much as we can."

For more information on Bishop Graham's appeal visit the Diocese of Norwich website.