A CARING Horwich student is funding a trip to help a water and sanitation project in South America by sky-diving and arranging a tea-party for 55 on Monday.

Eleanor McVey, aged 19, is off on a two-month Raleigh International Charity trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua in September.

There, she will help with vital sustainability projects before returning to start her studies at the University of Manchester in French and Spanish.

She has to raise the necessary £2,550 herself and so far has taken part in a sky-dive, run car-boots, sold handmade chocolates.

And on Monday at CreateBolton in Claremont House in the town centre she is organising afternoon tea to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.

A leading local artist is also offering for auction a tailor-made day of learning the art of ceramics, right from throwing on a potter’s wheel.

“I’m really looking forward to the trip and to working with young people in Costa Rica,” stated Eleanor. “I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me, especially the Bolton Lions who have pledged the last £300.”

For tickets for the afternoon tea or to bid for the auction, call 01204 696931 or 07964 145766 or go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Eleanor-McVey