A BLEDLOW teenager is about to set off on the adventure of a lifetime to help carry out vital humanitarian work in Africa.

Hannah Catlin and her partner Tim Beswick, both 19, will spend four weeks in Ghana helping with a series of community projects, including teaching in local schools, raising awareness of AIDS, HIV and family planning, and helping to build a school.

Hannah, a volunteer with non-profit organisation Frontier, said: "It's something I have wanted to do from a young age.

"I am not somebody who cannot survive without hair straighteners or the latest games console, but I would like to find out just how lucky I am to live the life I have.

"We will be staying with a Ghanaian family, meaning no luxuries like running water or electricity."

Hannah and Time have had to fund the total cost of the trip themselves, including flights, insurance and immunisation.

The pair are due to fly out to Ghana on February 18 before returning on March 17.

Hannah's father Dave, a fire safety team leader with Bucks Fire and Rescue, said: "I'm so proud of Hannah. This was all her idea, and she has already shown how capable she is of rising to the challenge of funding the trip, and going without many of the comforts we all take for granted.

"If anyone can help them in any way I know their support will be gratefully received."

Dave's colleagues have been helping to fund their trip after putting up a collection box in the reception area at Bucks Fire and Rescue's HQ in Aylesbury.

Anyone who would like to sponsor the pair should ring Hannah on 01844 347426 or send an email to hannah_catlin@hotmail.com.