A TEAM of students from a Bournemouth school aims to help poverty-stricken special needs children in Ethiopia.

Seven pupils from Oakmead College of Technology plan to travel to the capital Addis Ababa in October on a week-long mercy mission.

The proposed trip is part of a project by the Sussex-based Cred Foundation with the young people planning a play scheme for the children.

More than 80 Oakmead students applied for the seven places after Cred representatives showed them a film depicting scenes of poverty in Ethiopia.

One of the successful applicants, Georgina Meigh, told the Daily Echo: “In a country as poor as Ethiopia the difference Cred makes to the lives of the special needs children is beyond words. It is my intention to help them continue to do so.”

Each team member needs to raise £800 towards the cost of flights, travel, insurance and equipment and the group has planned a number of charity events.

They include a fashion show, charity car wash, disco and sponsored swim and local businesses have also been approached for help.

The team is also asking members of the public for donations.

Anyone who can help is urged to contact the college chaplain, James Sharp, at Oakmead on 01202 774600.