Student trekkers heading to South America

THIRTEEN students are embarking on a life-changing trek across South America to help indigenous communities conserve the environment. The trip is challenging the group, made up of 16 to 18-year olds from Helena Romanes School, to think about nature and ho

THIRTEEN students are embarking on a life-changing trek across South America to help indigenous communities conserve the environment.

The trip is challenging the group, made up of 16 to 18-year olds from Helena Romanes School, to think about nature and how to conserve the planets' future.

Trip leader, Kimberley Cross, one of two teachers accompanying the students, said: "We will be trekking in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for a month from July, seeing various areas of the country from cloud forests to mountains and volcanoes.

"We will also have a phase in the Galapagos Islands, where we will work with the community to help conserve their environment, look after the giant turtles and visit several islands."

Activities the group will be taking part in will include white water rafting, snorkelling and visiting national parks.

"It is an amazing opportunity for the students and I am sure they will remember it for the rest of their lives," added Ms Cross.

The trip is costing each student �4000 so continual fundraising is underway.

A first event - a fashion show - is happening next week on Thursday March 12 at 7pm at the school.

The company 'Wardrobe Mistresses' are providing clothes to be shown down the catwalk and are available to purchase on the evening at discounted prices from high street prices. The clothes are from shops such as Topshop, River Island and Monsoon. Tickets are �5 adults (including a glass of wine) and �3.50 for concessions. For more information call 01371 872560.