Stars rally for Darfur appeal

Updated 22.42 Sun Apr 29 2007

Keywords: violence, Sudan, celebrities, appeal, Darfur

Sir Elton John, George Clooney and Sir Bob Geldof are among the top stars campaigning for Darfur to mark the fourth year since the conflict began.

Many of the celebrities have been photographed smashing hourglasses filled with blood to publicise the message that "every second of delay is another second in which more blood is spilt".

According to the UN, some 200,000 people have died since the conflict began

They have also backed a statement calling on "the International Community (to) end its stalling and take decisive action".

The statement comes as protests will be taking place around the world to demand intervention to end the fighting in the Darfur region.

10,000 hourglasses filled with fake blood will be turned by activists to highlight the violence today, while organisers of Global Day for Darfur say several other events will take place in over 35 capitals.

In London, a rally will be held at midday opposite 10 Downing Street.

According to the UN, some 200,000 people have died since the conflict began.