IT isn't often you'll hear men admit to being emotional, especially those in the services.

But the stark reality of Britain's wealth and Africa's poverty hits home when you visit Nanyuki Children's Home.

The Woofers have carried out several visits to the centre for children in need of special protection.

They've helped deliver gifts of clothes, shoes, books and toys sent by a school in Bournemouth.

"You take your breath when you go in," said 1WFR's Sgt Mark Marston, who has been one of the most regular visitors. "Some of the lads were quite affected by it, they were taken aback.

"It was brilliant to see the children's faces light up. It's not about us, it's about the kids. We made sure each child got something."

The visits have been arranged with L/Cpl Iain Pyper, of the Army Air Corps.

The 26-year-old was contacted by a schoolteacher in Bournemouth to deliver gifts the children had collected.

"A whole lot of us went down there with toys, baby clothes, lots of presents for them. There's a lot of sponsorship from the school in the UK.

"The kids were very shy to start with but, when we left, there were fits of laughter as they opened their presents. A lot of the lads were overcome, because you realise how much better off you are growing up in the UK.

"There was a little girl opening her present and she was quite happy licking her lollipop. It was a new experience for here.

"As long as we keep coming out, the Army's keen to support them. There's not a lot you can do but put a brave face on."