YOUNGSTERS at Lytchett Minster School are trying to replace money for a trip to Africa which went up in flames during the devastating fire at the school.

The group of 12 youngsters and teacher Nikki Peace had been saving for a World Challenge trip to Kilimanjaro in July.

But a kitty of £150 to cover emergencies, in country travel and other costs, sadly perished in the blaze which destroyed the arts block at the school.

The money had been raised through fundraising events including jumble sales and cake sales, and now the intrepid team of Year 11 and Year 12 students are appealing for help in raising the money once again.

Nikki Peace, head of drama, dance and performing arts said: “The trip was organised last year. I’m a really keen traveller so the trip was my idea and I wanted to take a group with me.

“We are due to be there for three weeks in total.

“We are doing a week of community work, planting trees in a village and spending time with the community, there is a week of acclimatisation walks and then we will tackle Kilimanjaro.

“The fund was for our travel expenses in Tanzania and other expenses that may occur while we are there. Everyone had worked really hard to raise the cash so it’s devastating.

“We are planning more events but we’ve lost a month now due to the fire and the departure date is creeping ever closer.”

Nikki added: “The fire was just horrible. I was at the school on the day it happened and it was devastating.

“As well as all the work, it was the sentimental items we lost, the mementos from students. It was a real shock.”

Anyone who can help the group with funding should contact Nikki at the school on 01202 622413 or email her on peacen@lytchett.org.uk