A YORK-BASED charity which helps tribespeople in a remote part of Thailand is looking for 14 volunteers to take part in a sponsored trek in the region.

The Karen Hilltribes Trust says the eight-day trek will go through forested mountains near the Burma border, sleeping in small tents, staying in Karen villages, sharing time with the Karen people and visiting various projects.

“This will be an experience not to forget,” said the charity’s founder and organiser, Penelope Worsley.

“Each participant will need to find a minimum of £2,000 in sponsorship which will go directly towards projects to help the Karen people. In addition, they will cover their flights and other related costs. The trek will be challenging, but the pace will be determined by the group.”

Penelope said she had recently returned from three weeks in Thailand visiting the charity’s projects and its volunteers.

She said she had witnessed the difficulties faced by villagers with transport to school and food. “With the very heavy rains last year, many floods destroyed rice crops and families are struggling to cope.

“The trust has a tractor to clear land and is installing irrigation systems to enable the local people to grow their own crops again.”

* For further information on the trek, phone Penelope Worsley on 01904 411891 or email Penelope@karenhilltribes.org.uk, or visit karenhilltribes.org.uk