A VALE couple have sold their home and forgone a well-earned retirement to volunteer in Uganda for the next two years.

Phil Woodcock, aged 57, from Bishampton will be helping to manage a conservation project in the country's capital city Kampala. His wife Heather, aged 55 and a former teacher, will help trainee teachers identify children with special needs. Both placements were made through the voluntary service overseas charity VSO.

Mrs Woodcock said: "In 2003 I went to India and saw some street children on the side of the road, and saw there was a need to help with education in developing countries. This is a challenge and a chance to use my skills - I had decided to retire at 55 but felt I still had something to give."

Mr Woodcock, a former bank branch director, added: "We felt this allowed us to do some travelling, but with a purpose at the same time - we thought it was time we did something for someone else. It is the unknown, but it's an exciting time in our lives."

Mrs and Mrs Woodcock, who have been married for 34 years and have three sons aged between 25 and 29, will receive an average local monthly wage of around £120. They leave for Uganda on February 17, with VSO covering the pair's travel and medical costs. The couple was also asked to attend numerous courses in this country to prepare them for the trip.

Mrs Woodcock said: "This is a two-year commitment and we'll then think about returning home. We have had great support from people, and a lot have told us they wish they could do something themselves. You need to be adaptable and energetic - and prepared for anything." For more information visit www.vso.org.uk.