A group of young adventurers have launched a fundraising campaign to help them educate youngsters thousands of miles away.

The 15 and 16-year-old pupils, from Ryton Comprehensive School, Gateshead, are organising a four-week expedition to Namibia, in South West Africa, next year.

But before they go, they have to raise the funds to get there.

Namibia is a land of vast deserts and amazing wildlife, but its small population is scattered and the education facilities in its many villages are basic.

The Ryton expedition will be helping to improve these facilities under a scheme run by the Secondary Heads' Association, which has already established educational links.

The Ryton trailblazers are planning local fundraising activities, but would like to hear from businesses or individuals who can help out.

Team member Claire Stancliffe, 15, said: "We hope the trip will help us to gain an understanding of life in a very different culture from our own.

"We are the first group from the school to do something like this, so it is very exciting."

"We know Gateshead has links with countries such as the Ukraine and Japan, but this is a great chance to forge friendships with, and to improve the educational facilities of people in another part of the world, whose day-to-day life is so vastly different to our own."

Anyone who is able to offer help or support to the expedition group should call Joe Edgoose at Ryton Comprehensive School on 0191-413 2113.