Student on mission to help youngsters (From Barry And District News)

Student on mission to help youngsters

A VALE OF Glamorgan student has single-handedly raised more than £50,000 to lead a three-month sporting exchange programme across Eastern Europe, teaching children from war-torn countries how to play again.

Former Cowbridge School pupil Michael Emery, 22, from Llanmaes, founded Play - A Sporting Exchange together with friend Richard Hamilton.

The expedition team, consisting of 12 multi-national young people, will travel through Eastern Europe including Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria. They will organise activity sessions and before leaving each location will donate more than £1,500 worth of sporting equipment to the children.

Michael said: "We have seen the incredible affects our efforts have had. We've watched children, some with severe physical or behavioural difficulties, others from greatly disadvantaged backgrounds, become more communicative, more self-confident and more considerate of others.

"Play, although a relatively basic concept, is fundamental to a child's development and is often forgotten in countries that have witnessed economic hardship and other social problems.

"This expedition is the culmination of hard work, sweat and tears. It will be the realisation of an idea, a belief, and the final result will be well worth all the effort. We thank all the people who have made this belief a reality."

Michael raised the £50,000 through fundraising events and corporate sponsorships. Companies UK-wide donated sporting equipment and resources to help make the trip a success.

One of South Wales' largest family-run companies, the Complete Office Solution (COS), established by Michael's father Peter Emery 35 years ago, donated a mini-bus for the 18,000km journey.

Peter said: "We're extremely proud of Michael. The company wanted to support him, not only because he is one of the family but because this provides us with an opportunity to help so many disadvantaged children who have grown-up without the benefit of play".

Ieuan Evans, patron of the charity, says: "It is very admirable that Michael and the team are undertaking this immense task. I am delighted to be able to support this worthwhile cause that will help make a real difference to the lives of children across Eastern Europe".

To find out more about Play visit: www.sportingexchange.org.uk