YOUNGSTERS from a Worc-ester drama group are gearing up for a charity performance on Saturday to raise money for a homeless project that has been set up in Nigeria.

The Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's Youth Section, affectionately known as WODYS, is helping to launch an appeal for a 4x4 car for the Amaudo community.

The community was set up in Nigeria in 1990 to help people with mental health problems found wandering the streets. It helps to rehabilitate people and then re-settle them back in their home villages.

The charity's work has been closely followed by Worcester resident Margaret Clutter-buck, who first went to Nigeria in 1958 for teacher training work. The 76-year-old, of Bromwich Road, said: "In Nigeria, they believe that mental illness is caused by evil spirits and the people who suffer are badly abused and can be chained and have parts of their body cut off.

"The centre is actually a village of healing and as well as giving people the right treatment helps them learn self respect and feel valued again.

"The workers live in the community, helping the residents with everyday jobs and, once they are ready, help them to go back home.

"One thing they desperately need, though, is a vehicle. They need a 4x4 to carry firewood to prepare food for residents, to go to market for provisions, and to carry residents for routine health check-ups and trace families, as well as for recreation activities.

"Along with my daughter Gill, who set up a satellite centre out there, and others, we estimate that we need £14,000 for such a vehicle.

"Hopefully, WODYS will give us a good start at the weekend," she added.

WODYS performance, a mixture of song and dance from the West End shows, takes place at the Methodist Church in Bromyard Road in St John's at 2.30pm. All tickets for the show have been sold.