English: A house turned completely upside down by the force of the tsunami, in part of Kamaishi's Unosumai suburb.

Photo taken by a member of the UK's Urban Search and Rescue team, who were deployed to Japan on Saturday 12 March, following a request for assistance from the Japanese government.

Despite an extensive search of residential and industrial properties, no survivors have been found.

Heavy snow and falling temperatures six days after the start of the disaster mean there is now is an extremely low chance of finding survivors.

Therefore following a discussion with the Japanese disaster authorities, the UK team and their US counterparts have agreed not to extend their rescue operations and will begin to withdraw from Japan.

The team remain fit and well and continue to monitor radiation levels closely. No abnormal radiation has been detected in the area.

Andrew Mitchell, Secretary of State for International Development said:

"We are all extremely proud of the work of the UK Fire and Rescue team. Sadly, the chance of them finding further survivors is now extremely low and so their specialist skills are no longer necessary in Japan. We have therefore agreed with the Japanese authorities that we will withdraw our team.

"I am proud that despite very difficult conditions, the UK Fire and Rescue service's dedication and professionalism was able to help Japan in its hour of need."

To find out more about how the UK is helping respond to the earthquake in Japan, please visit http://www.dfid.gov.uk/japanearthquake

Picture: Ed Hawkesworth/DFID

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