TWO Darlington students are planning to embark on an exciting trip to carry out important charity work.

Ellie Martin, of Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, and Eve Doherty, who studies at Darlington College of Technology, hope to work in Costa Rica and Nicaragua for Raleigh International on conservation projects.

The pair will set off early in 2005, to spend three months rebuilding coral reefs and helping in deprived communities.

Ellie and Eve are now trying to raise the £3,500 needed to fund their placements with the charity.

They have organised a series of events, including an 1980s theme party and acoustic nights in local pubs. They are also hoping to set up a Stars in their Eyes event.

Ellie said: "We are really looking forward to it, but there is a lot to do before we go. I wanted to have a gap year to travel and work before going to university and felt that I wanted to combine this with helping others less fortunate than myself."