A YEAR 10 student from Thomas Adams School in Wem, who is hoping to travel on a working expedition to Cambodia, has started his fundraising campaign.

Benjamin Keers has enrolled on a month-long visit to the South East Asian country as part of a social enterprise project, to provide aid to poverty-stricken areas a vulnerable communities.

As part of the expedition, Benjamin will help construct housing, install sanitation facilities, construct livestock shelters, complete school improvements and work in jungle gardens.

Benjamin says the journey is real opportunity to make a difference.

“This incredible opportunity will help me grow as an individual,” said Benjamin. “While helping hundreds of people during my time away.

“This expedition will be made up of students from my year group at school and kindly managed by Camps International.

“Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world and its poor economy, combined with a lack of employment result in communities existing well below the poverty line.

“I will be constructing wells to provide water access for villagers in an effort to improve living standards.

“In order for me to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity, I need to fundraise £4,080.

“I have made plans for various fundraising activities over the next year. One idea is to cycle the distance to Cambodia – 6,000 miles – with two of my friends on exercise and road bikes.”

Benjamin is also looking for local companies to sponsor his mission.