A STUDENT hoping to teach English to underprivileged children in India is appealing for help in funding her trip.

Catherine Williams, of Winsford Drive in Burtonwood, wants to take part in a three-month voluntary project in Madurai, South India.

The 21-year-old said: "I've always wanted to do something like this and, when I saw a poster about it at university, I thought I might as well go for it.

"This is a scheme I feel particularly passionate about and I am eager to make a real difference to the children's lives.

"I wish to draw forth the pupil's confidence, potential and sense of self worth."

Catherine would be making the journey with a group called Travellers, a founder member of the Year Out Group which works directly with schools and the Department of Education.

Travellers make financial donations to the school each time a volunteer participates in a placement and also provide equipment and learning aids on an ongoing basis.

Catherine is working as a housekeeper in student halls throughout the summer, but this alone will not be enough.

The University of Manchester student said: "I need to raise more than £1,000.

"It's hard because I'm working part time while trying to fit it in with preparing for my classes in September."

If you would like to sponsor Catherine, or could help her make this trip, e-mail her at elastagal84@yahoo.co.uk.

For more information about Travellers and the voluntary work they do around the world visit travellersworldwide.com