Published: Thursday, 24th June, 2010 9:18am

Teens' return mercy mission to Africa

by Kirsty Gibbins

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A TEAM of Ross High pupils is preparing to embark on a three-week mission to aid a drought-stricken community in Kenya.

Rheagan Donaldson, Alison Ewan, Lucy Carrol, Shaun Robertson and Jack Spilsbury will travel to Narok Town, near Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve, on July 11 as part of a Mission International project to create a water supply .

It is the second time that Rheagan and Alison have helped to improve the lives of struggling families in Africa. The pair spent three weeks last July working with impoverished families in Burundi.

Rheagan told the Courier: "It was such an eye-opener, though I really enjoyed the experience."

A year later, she cannot wait to head off on her next mercy mission.

"I'm really, really looking forward to it and this time round we know what to expect a little more," she said.

The five travellers have dedicated hours to fundraising for the water project and a recent bag-packing event added a fantastic £1,025 for their cause.

And Pencaitland teenager Jack, who has just finished his final term at Ross High, bravely sacrificed his long mane of hair and underwent a head-shave last November to raise cash for the adventure.

The next fundraiser, a music night, takes place tonight (Friday) - also Rheagan's 17th birthday - at Port Seton Community Centre at 6.30pm.

The evening features performances by talented pupils from Ross High's music department, dancers, singers, a rock band, a brass band and an African drummer from Burundi.

Hugh Henderson, Mission International director and Rheagan's uncle, will also speak with attendees about the work the charity carries out in impoverished countries.

Tickets are priced at £5 each and can be bought on the night or from Rheagan.