PRAYERS have been said in Scotland's capital for the thousands of people known to have died in the devastating earthquake in Nepal.

A candlelit vigil was held outside Edinburgh City Chambers to show solidarity for those caught up in the disaster and remember those who had lost their lives and are struggling in the aftermath.

Representatives from the Gurkha brigade and the Scottish Nepali community attended the service alongside more than 100 people from the city.

An appeal was made by the Edinburgh-based disaster relief charity Mercy Corps for aid to be sent to the areas worst affected by the disaster.

The humanitarian organisation has been working in Nepal since 2006 and has already dispatched an emergency response team to evaluate conditions and deliver emergency supplies to desperate families.

The UN estimates the magnitude7.8 quake that struck on April 25 affected 8.1 million people, more than a fourth of Nepal's population of 27.8 million and has placed the death toll at more than 6,600. Around 1,000 Europeans who were in the area are still considered missing.

During the vigil, Edinburgh Lord Provost Donald Wilson said: "When an event as devastating as this take place, I believe it is important for residents to feel there is an opportunity to express condolences and provide united support.

"I urge everyone in Edinburgh to do and give what they can, whether they join us for the candle lighting ceremony, make a donation to the Mercy Corps, pause for reflection or say a prayer for the lives lost.

"Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world and is suffering one of the most horrific disasters. The survivors of this terrible disaster and all of the aid workers in Nepal urgently need sympathy and support from all corners of the world."

Rajendra Bam, the Chair of the Nepal Scotland Association added: "The effect on our country has been devastating. We represent about 800 Nepali people in Edinburgh and the Lothians and no one has been left untouched by this tragedy, everyone has a story.

"Our community is a very close one and what affects one, affects another. We are working in cooperation with charities, such as Mercy Corps, towards the urgent relief programme. Anything that you can do to help us is much appreciated."

Simon O'Connell, Executive Director of Mercy Corps Europe said: "Our teams have been working hard for the last week to meet emergency needs of survivors in Nepal and assess what is needed for the recovery of the country.

"We are distributing urgent relief to families in Kathmandu and in villages outside of the capital and working hard to get more emergency supplies in for families who are in desperate need.

"Time is of the essence and donations are critical to our ongoing relief effort."