Dear Friends

Last summer we visited an extraordinary school in the middle of impoverished Zanzibar, and they have asked for help in raising money for a new school bus which is urgently needed. I hope that you will be able to help me raise the money that they need!

The Francis Maria Libermann School is the best school on the island and is educating the next generation of professionals who will help to lift Zanzibar out of poverty. It has 300 pupils; boys and girls, Catholics and Muslims, who are taught in a spirit of love and respect. It was deeply impressive for us to spend half a day there and to attend classes.

Whilst this initiative is strictly a one-off gift, Ampleforth, where I studied, has been providing long-term assistance through its friendship and aid programme for some time. The school's facilities are pretty basic and the diosesan Bishop has asked for our help in this. We have found a 24-seater plus-driver 1999  Toyato Caetano Optimo 4 Bus - it is being serviced, painted and will be sent by ship, probably leaving on 24 December 2008, arriving almost in time for the new school year in 2009.

Particularly also as we enter the season of giving, I ask for any donations. Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Ampleforth Abbey (and thus Face-Faw) will receve your donation faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. 

So please sponsor me now and so help this school in Zanzibar!

Best wishes

James