WESTON GRAN PREPARES FOR MALAWI MERCY MISSION

A REMARKABLE grandmother from Weston is embarking on a final visit to Malawi to help impoverished and orphaned children.

Dr Rebecca Palmers, aged 78, has worked in the south eastern African country for over 30 years, delivering much needed aid and infrastructure support.

Her current project is with the Jegola Youth Support Organisation, through which she is providing clothing and supporting the Jegola Teenage Orphans Private Secondary School.

The school is home to close to 150 boys and girls, with two newly built rooms of residence for boarding girls.

Dr Palmer, a former educationalist who ran her own school, first got involved in voluntary efforts in Malawi as part of the Diplomatic Women's Organisation.

Affectionately called mother by the orphans on her visits, she is thankful to those who have generously supported the project.

Members of Beechan Cliff Methodist Church and All Saints Church in Weston have played a key role in contributing to the cost of the project.

As one of the school's directors, Dr Palmer wants to secure further support from organisations such as the Bill Gates Foundation.

She is fearful that the current economic climate will worsen the already dire situation in Malawi, with the price of basic foods rocketing.

To offer support or to get involved, call Dr Palmer on 317342.