Sheffield United this afternoon offered their support to the Chinese government after the province where the Chengdu Blades are based was rocked by an earthquake, which experts say has killed more than 8,500 people.

The Blades are in touch with officials at their Chinese sister club in Sichuan and have been ensured that all personnel are safe.

However, the club has offered to give assistance to the ruling party in China to help victims of the quake, with Chengdu just 50 miles from the epicentre.

Kevin McCabe, United's Plc chairman, said: "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.

"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.