Tapped on the shoulder by the founder of the Northern Cleft Foundation (NCF) earlier this year whilst nursing his grandchild I had to take up this opportunity you will agree.....

Each year NCF (www.northerncleftfoundation.co.uk) visits India with a team of volunteer specialist doctors, nurses and support staff. Next January 16th-26th we shall go to Nagpur for long intensive days of performing corrective surgery for cleft lip and palate - free life-changing surgery for underprivileged children too poor to access medical help. With our assistance they will be able to start eating, drinking and speaking properly - we will transform and give hope to their life.

Not only does each team member volunteer but they also pay £1,500 for the privilege. Buoyed on my friends to whom I have told of my intention and who would like to contribute I have been asked to start crowd-funding. Fees are due by September 1st.

Thank you in advance for your help. Sarah