A student is heading to South Africa to help orphaned children of Aids victims.

Amy Skinner, 23, of Leigham Court Drive, Leigh, will work in an orphanage for three months in Cape Town.

She is taking a gap year before studying for a Masters degree at King's College London.

She said she had always been fascinated by Africa and wanted to help.

Miss Skinner said: "I'm trying to raise as much money as possible to pay for my air fare and any more I raise will go towards the orphanage. I fly out on February 18 and hopefully."

Although most of the orphans are young, Amy hopes to teach English to some of the older children.

She needs to raise £2,000. To help, call her on 01702 480212.