STUDENTS and teachers from Barry Comprehensive School are preparing to jet off to Sri Lanka this summer to volunteer their time.

The group will volunteer at a school and visit orphanages, a deaf and blind school and other institutions that house vulnerable people.

Before going the Team Sri Lanka group needs to raise £10,000, with them hoping businesses will help sponsor them or donate gifts for them to raffle in upcoming events.

Part of the money will be used to buy teaching materials, toys, sports equipment and art and crafts, in aid of the Help Lanka charity.

Alun Cairns MP, an avid supporter and donor to Help Lanka, spoke to the sixth formers about the trip pledged his support.

During his visit, he talked about his own recollections of the Tsunami disaster in 2004 that gave rise to the charity and watched a presentation from last year’s touring party.

Mr Cairns said: “I was delighted to meet the teachers and students at Barry Comprehensive who are heading to Sri Lanka as part of the Help Lanka Initiative.

"It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm they had for helping others in need so far away.

"Their dedication, raising money throughout the year preparing for hard work as teachers when they are there, is truly impressive.

"I wish the students from Barry Comprehensive the very best of luck in securing the funds they need and delivering the help they can in this project.

"The staff at Barry Comprehensive have been working with Help Lanka to make this happen year in year out, they deserve praise.”

A fundraising Race Night at the school will be held on March 24, with other events planned.

For more information on the events contact Damon Williams or Charlotte Bowkett on 01446 411411.