AN EDEN couple are on a mission to improve the lives of children in Uganda.

Retired vicar Christopher Jenkin,73 and his wife Mary, 63, of Orton, are appealing for help to raise the remaining £15,000 required for a project to build a hostel for homeless youngsters in Kasese, western Uganda.

They have already collected £12,000 during the past two years from charity runs, private donations and opening their garden to the public.

The Jenkins first met the orphans on holiday in 2008, when they witnessed first hand the poverty they were subjected to.

Once the hostel is up and running, hopefully by the end of August, the children will not only have a home but also somewhere to make a living.

Mrs Jenkin said they planned to set up workshops where the children would be able to become independent by learning skills such as dress-making. All donations will be accepted. For further details call 015396 24410 or e-mail chriscjenkin@aol.com