A Hartismere School student will embark on a 20-mile walk in a bid to make his planned travels to Uganda a reality.
Toby Stephens, 14, from Rickinghall, is part of a group of students hoping to visit the country for four weeks in the summer of next year.
Organised by Camps International, the trip will see the students attempt to raise enough funds to cover the cost of the trip themselves.
The 20-mile long walk, along a footpath running from Hoxne to Stowmarket, on June 16, will be Toby’s latest fundraising effort.
“Raising money has been an all new experience for me,” said Toby.
“I’m feeling up for the walk – I’ll be with some other friends for school.”
So far, Toby has raised £1,863 of his £4,280 target.
To raise the money, he is also selling domino cards, with each buyer in with the chance of winning a prize, as well as squares for a ‘Where’s the Rhino?’ competition.
He has sold items at school fairs and online, and even asked for money in lieu of Christmas presents to fund his expedition.
Toby has received sponsorship from businesses in return for some advertising space on his official T-shirt.
“I’ll be wearing the shirt on my walk, and possibly in Uganda if the temperature will allow me,” he said.
“I’d really like more companies to sponsor me and make the walk even more worthwhile. I want to raise £350 through the walk.”
Travelling to Uganda will be a first for Toby, who said it will be an important experience for him as he will be able to witness life in the African country.
He will also help the local community by building schools and houses, as well as taking part in projects which help protect white rhinos.
Toby’s mother, Claire, said: “I think the trip is a great idea as it will offer him the chance to experience different cultures and appreciate what we have at home.
“He loves the idea of travelling there and we are proud of how much he has raised so far.”
