Lady Gaga gives $1m to help victims of superstorm Sandy

Lady Gaga has announced that she will donate $1 million (£626,000) to the American Red Cross to assist with Hurricane Sandy Relief in New York.

The superstorm, which struck the east coast of America last week, killed more than 120 people.

The star, 26, posted on her blog: "I pledge one million dollars to New York and The American Red Cross.

"If it wasn't for Lower Eastside, Harlem, the Bronx and Brooklyn, I would not be the woman I am today."

Authorities in New York say millions of people are still without power after the storm.

Freezing temperatures and the threat of snowfall are now a fresh worry.

Heaters and blankets have been distributed to those without heat or power and shelters have been opened to those in need of a warm place to sleep.

Lady Gaga said that New York was a place full of "relentless ambition".

She added: "Please accept this gift on behalf of myself, my parents Joe and Cynthia, and my sister Natali; with our deepest gratitude New York for raising us.

"Thank you for helping me build my spirit. I will now help you rebuild yours."