Teenager returns from trip of a lifetime

A ROYSTON youngster has just returned from a three-month stay in Nepal after taking part in a cultural exchange programme. Martin Goddard, 19, of Hollies Close, Royston, was sent to the South Asian country as part of the Global Xchange scheme. He said:

A ROYSTON youngster has just returned from a three-month stay in Nepal after taking part in a cultural exchange programme.

Martin Goddard, 19, of Hollies Close, Royston, was sent to the South Asian country as part of the Global Xchange scheme.

He said: "This was a once in a lifetime chance to immerse myself in a whole new culture and learn so much about a new country, new people and myself.

"I have had great fun, and made lifelong friends, but at the same time I've been able to help people who really need it, and learn about global issues."

The exchange saw Martin go the Nepalese town of Kavre, where he took part in various community projects, including teaching English, working with the Nepal Red Cross and volunteering in a deaf school.

Global Xchange, which is run jointly by Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) and the British Youth Council, aims to make young people citizens of the world. More information can be found at www.vso.org.uk/globalxchange.