A STUDLEY student is off to Thailand in March on a mission to help disabled orphans.

Claire Ford, 19, will be joining five other British volunteers in Bangkok as part of the Transform programme run by Christian relief organisation Tearfund.

She is taking a gap year to work in a large orphanage looking after children who are often mistreated and cast out from society.

Claire (above), of Badbury Gardens, said: "I'm really grateful for all the support I've had from people in the community, both financial and otherwise.

"It has helped me to nearly reach the target of £2,500, which I need to go.

"I am excited and a bit nervous about going as it will be challenging but I'm looking forward to seeing a completely different way of life."

In preparation for the four-month visit, Claire recently took part in an intensive three-day orientation course in London to give her the knowledge needed to work in difficult and traumatic conditions.

Meanwhile, fundraising continues.

She has been working at Boots in Redditch and at Studley Castle to raise cash, as well as holding various fund-raising events.

Her next will be a Thai evening when she and a team of volunteers will cook a meal for 50 paying guests.

Anyone willing to help Claire with a donation can call her on 857277.