VILLAGES LEARN ABOUT MALAWI
(Kent Messenger Extra – 24 June 2005)

MORE than 40 residents from villages around Doddington heard about progress on projects in Malawi when they attended a presentation evening (10th June).

The event at Doddington village hall was organised by the Community Overseas Aid Project, which is funded by people from Lynsted, Doddington, Newnham, Wichling and Norton. Father and son Tim and Tom Sidney, with Graham Cuthbert and Jean Hewett, who visited Malawi on behalf of the project, told their audience about present and future projects.

Ongoing schemes include two community centres, which double as churches and study centres and a water well. Villagers have also sent maize – to feed 1,000 families in times of famine - tools and computer equipment.

Jo Sidney, whose husband Tim is chairman of the aid project, said Friday night's event raised £240 towards the work.

Entertainment featured an African choir from London. Hot African food was also available.

New projects will include a support scheme for orphans, which allows them to find time to play, buying bicycle ambulances to provide transport for patients from isolated villages and a plan to refurbish and equip a health centre.

Mrs Sidney said children belonging to the Teynham Explorers have already presented her with £100 to buy a bicycle ambulance - cash they saved from their pocket money.

Anyone who would like to donate money or essential supplies to the project should write to the Community Overseas Aid Project, Lyndale, Ludgate Lane, Lynsted, ME9 ORQ, or phone 01795 521714.