The quake, measuring 7.8 on the richter scale, struck yesterday morning and is reported to have claimed more than 8,500 lives.

The epicentre was only 57 miles north-west of the Sichuan provincial capital of Chengdu - home of the Chengdu Blades.
Sheffield United officials contacted team personnel immediately and were assured everyone form the club was safe.

But the overall death toll in China is expected to rise as rescuers continue the search for survivors underneath collapsed buildings including schools, offices and homes.

Sheffield United have now offered to give assistance to the ruling party in China to help victims of the quake.

"Sheffield United Football Club would like to express deep sadness and sympathy to the thousands of people affected by the major earthquake in the Sichuan province of China," said Kevin McCabe, United's Plc chairman.

"The Blades made instant contact with our sister club, the Chengdu Blades, and we are pleased to hear that all personnel are safe and well, with no major damage caused. We will continue to liaise closely with the club and colleagues in Chengdu - where we have built up a lot of links with the local community - and have contacted the Government to offer our assistance in any way we can."

In October 2006, United became the first club to purchase a stake in a Chinese league side and last season the Chengdu Blades gained promotion to the top division in the country.

Chengdu, which has a population of 11 million, is the capital of the Sichuan province with a population of around 100 million people.

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