Tsunami helper vows to go alone (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Tsunami helper vows to go alone

A COTSWOLD woman will go to help Sri Lankan communities devastated by the Boxing Day tsunami - whether or not anyone is prepared to join her in the mercy bid.

Sally Fay-George, from Moreton, said she would still like to find a travel companion for the planned trip - but would be leaving for the stricken nation next month regardless.

"I am in contact with an aid co-ordinator in Sri Lanka by email and I am quite prepared to go on my own," said the 50-year-old.

Sally said she had been inspired to do something to help the survivors of the disaster by Blockley parish clerk Geoff Gregg who lent his practical skills to the mammoth rebuilding task alongside his daughter Sophie, aged 32.

Like Mr Gregg, Sally believes that anyone who is prepared to give their time would be a great help to the struggling communities. "There is a lot of practical work to be done," she explained. "From building to gardening - it is just a matter of rolling up your sleeves.

"Besides, you do not need to be qualified as a doctor or a nurse to cuddle a child."

Sally has already received an offer of help from the Cotswold Time Bank, Fair Shares.

It is hoped that members of the scheme will be able to drive her to and from the airport in exchange for 'time credits', which can be cashed at the bank for other services.

Anyone who would like to talk to Sally about her plans or who would like to join her, should call 01608 651350.