A CATSHILL resident was so moved after visiting a Gambia school he is determined to raise the funds to build a new classroom for them.

John Philpott, from Lingfield Walk, went to Gambia on holiday last month with his wife Gail.

When there the 59-year-old made a surprise visit to the local Ida Jean Nursery School in Sukuta. The school has around 70 pupils between the age of three and five. However, when he arrived John found the school had hardly any equipment and was in a terrible condition.

"When I saw the state of the school it brought me to tears. I could not believe it," he said.

"They need more equipment and better facilities."

John has now pledged to raise the £3,000 needed to build a new classroom and is asking for help from kind-hearted townsfolk.

Donated

Ottakers bookstore, in the High Street, has already donated a number of books to be sent to the school.

The Royal British Legion in Droitwich is also having a charity night at the Salwarpe Road venue.

The event will take place on Friday, June 3, and will feature a disco and buffet.

John said: "So far people have been very good and have offered help. It is a start but now we need donations. I have been speaking to builders in the country about doing the work, so hopefully it will start coming together."

Support has also been pledged by SureStart Nursery School in Droitwich, who will be running a fun day in April.

Anyone interested in making donations or organising a fund raising event for the Sukuta school can contact John between 10am and 12pm on 01527 575716.