DHAKA: A day of national mourning has begun in Italy for the almost 300 people who died when a powerful earthquake hit mountainous central regions.

Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is due to attend state funerals for victims from Arquata, one of the worst-hit towns.

A state of emergency has been declared in affected areas and around $55m in funds pledged for rebuilding, reports the BBC.

The official death toll stands at 278 and no survivors have been found since Wednesday evening.

Despite this the authorities say they will continue the search until they are certain no-one is unaccounted for.

Most victims were Italian, but several foreigners were among those killed, including three Britons.

BDST: 1032 HRS, AUG 27, 2016
SR