VOLUNTEERS from Kendal, Windermere and Holme are flying to Romania to help the poor and needy.

Vic Brown is to lead a team of five people to Chihei next month to help the Smiles Foundation distribute food aid and basic nursing care.

And in July, 17-year-old David Kelly, of Kendal, will fly to the country on his own to help with child care and construction projects.

The members of the five-man team flying out in April have raised £550 each for their transport and accommodation in the area, but David and two volunteers who will also travel to Romania in 2011 still need to raise cash to support their work.

Mr Brown, regional am-bassador for the charity, has warned all of his volunteers to expect a shock in Romania. “They will be quite surprised,” said Mr Brown, who went to Romania at Easter, 2009, with the foundation.

“They will see a huge contrast between the wealth of the cities and the people who are living, quite literally, in shanty towns right next door.

“They will see people living in the most appal-ling conditions so it’s going to be quite a challenge.

“Romania is not a poor country but there is so much that needs doing and many people in poor circumstances.”

Kevin Hoy, the chief executive of Smiles, and four members of his Romanian team were at Skelsmergh on Monday to discuss the charity trip.

l To support Smiles Foundation with offers of funds or help, contact Mr Brown on 01524-781397.