AN Okehampton College student from Hatherleigh is fundraising in earnest to pay for a summer volunteering trip to Bulgaria.

Steve Downing, aged 17, has started to raise funds to enable him to work as a volunteer at Barista Orphanage in Bulgaria for a week in July. Bulgaria has the highest number of orphaned children in Europe, with around 8,700 orphans living in 144 orphanages.

Along with a small group of other sixth-form students, Steve will be helping orphaned children enjoy their holidays by arranging activities and games, and carrying out any hands-on work that is required. To go on the trip he needs to raise £600.

To fund the expedition, Steve will participate in the Ruby Run from Holsworthy to Hatherleigh on June 10, as well as washing cars and doing odd jobs for neighbours and friends.

If you would like to support Steve, please e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]