FUNDRAISERS from York developers Harrison have helped a little Nepalese orphan walk for the first time.

Seven-year old Anita Shresta lost part of her right foot after being badly burned on an open cooking fire as a baby.

After her mother died, her father, unable to care for her, brought her to the Hope Centre in Kathmandu – run by UK registered charity New Futures Nepal.

Now a sponsored walk at Castle Howard, organised by S Harrison Developments Ltd and involving more than 250 walkers, has funded two operations on her damaged limb.

After two months in hospital, she can now walk with a new artificial limb for the first time.

Colin Culley, Lockton-based trustee of New Futures Nepal, said: “Anita is a very brave and unbelievably happy child. She thought she would never be able to walk again, but thanks to those who took part in the 2008 Harrison Trek, at Castle Howard, she can. Seeing her smiling face makes all the effort worthwhile.”

The Harrison Trek for Children in Nepal, held last summer at the stately home near Malton, raised more than £14,500 for the charity.

The company has now agreed to sponsor the event again in 2009. “This year’s trek takes place on Saturday, June 20,” said the spokesman.

“Walkers choose from a two, five or 15-mile route around the grounds of Castle Howard and the beautiful Howardian Hills. Base camp, in the grounds of the stately home, will be set up by Colin and his Yorkshire team with help from the York-based Ghurkha regiment.”

Harrison chairman Martyn Harrison said: “The trek offers a great family day out, but seeing the difference that everyone’s efforts have made to Anita’s life is the real reward. We’re keen to encourage as many new walkers as possible to join us in 2009.”

* To find out more about the 2009 trek, or download a registration form, visit www.challenge4nepal.org or email Colin Culley on info@challenge4nepal.org