A Poppleton graduate hoping to head off to Tanzania to take part a conservation project is asking local businesses to come forward to sponsor her.

Helen Binks, aged 23, who has just finished a degree in African Studies, wants to take part in a six- month programme to gather data about the East Arc Mountains. The programme is run by a charity and Helen has to provide £4,000 to pay for travel, food and equipment. An appeal to a local business to help out resulted in Northminster Properties, at Upper Poppleton donating £200.

Director, Andrew Eccles, said: "We have planted hundreds of trees ourselves at the business park, and as it is well known for its careful landscaping it seems natural to spread conservation work abroad."

Anyone who can help Helen can contact her on 01904 794737.

Updated: 09:24 Saturday, March 01, 2003