The people of Harlow are mourning the loss of a former nurse who was killed in the Philippines typhoon disaster.

Jeffrey Ducusin and his mother were both killed when Typhoon Haiyan hit recently.

Mr Ducusin, who worked at Princess Alexandra Hospital for 10 years, returned to his home town Tacloban two months ago.

His wife Joy, who is an Overseas Filipino Worker and nurse, survived the destruction. Their son Jairo, six, who attended St Luke’s Catholic Primary School, is missing.

Jaime Laurio, cousin to Joy Ducusin, said: “Jeff was a hands-on father and Joy could not ask for more - a hard-working dad, a devoted nurse, and a good provider.

“Now, sadly because of Haiyan, Joy is left alone.”

The couple, who raised their son in London, went back to the Philippines every year to visit family.

They have a concrete house in Tacloban which was crushed by the strong currents.

Mrs Ducusin was found by her uncle with her face badly injured. She was able to survive by holding on to a window grill in the second floor of their house.

Ms Laurio continued: “Jeff tried to save his mum in the process but both of them drowned.

“Joy tried to hold Jairo, but the current was too strong and they were separated.

“Joy is crying everyday, hoping that maybe her son is still alive.”

The local community appeal is seeking donations to be airlifted to communities from Stansted airport. Items include clothing, food, sanitary products and drinking water.

A concert and quiz night will also be hosted by Mr Ducusin’s former colleagues in coming weeks in order to raise funds.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon said: “We should do all we can to help. May Jeffrey rest in peace.”

The typhoon, locally known as Typhoon Yolanda, affected 11 million people across the country, with the islands of Leyte and Cebu being the worst hit.

British emergency aid ShelterBox is already supporting 17,300 people in the Philippines after October’s Bohol earthquake.

Winds of up to 270mph raged through the nation, with 20ft waves engulfing many properties.

A farewell mass for Mr Ducusin will be held at Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Tracyes Road on Sunday.