African housebuilding trip for bank manager
A Spaldingbank manager is hoping to turn his hand to housebuilding when he joins an aid visit to South Africa next month.
Richard Lomas-Brown is used to raising money by running marathons but is now supporting Habitat For Humanity GB through which he will help build two homes for low-income families in Cape Town.
The trip in May is being supported by his employer Halifax, which is sending out 40 people in two groups over a two-week period.
More than 850 employees nationally applied for the opportunity and Mr Lomas-Brown said he felt extremely fortunate to get the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Although he admits he has minimal building experience the 35-year-old father-of-two is looking forward to the adventure.
He said: "I built a barbecue a few years ago and that is still standing so hopefully I will be OK.
"We were asked to write a rationale about why we wanted to go and what we had to offer.
"I think my proven charity fundraising experience helped and I was one of the lucky ones chosen.
"It's fantastic. It's really close to my heart as I have always been interested in Africa and the struggles the people have there.
"When this came up I just grabbed the opportunity with both hands."
Mr Lomas-Brown, of Eastgate, Bourne, has already held several fundraising events for the charity, including a pool competition and a 59-mile bikeathon.
A number of businesses have also donated an array of gifts for raffles.
A car boot sale in Bourne is planned for Sunday after which Mr Lomas-Brown will head off on his trip at the end of May in the second batch of employees.
Every penny raised will go directly towards the purchase of materials, such as the bricks, tiles and window frames that will be used to build the houses.
To sponsor Mr Lomas-Brown visit www.justgiving.com/richardlomasbrown
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Weather for Spalding
Tuesday 07 February 2012
Today
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Temperature: -7 C to 1 C
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