A compassionate overseas aid volunteer from Biggleswade is hoping to raise cash to fund his fifth trip to help children in a poverty stricken part of Africa.

The Comet: The new classrooms plastered and ready to be decorated by the children. Pic Luke NewmanThe new classrooms plastered and ready to be decorated by the children. Pic Luke Newman (Image: Archant)

This will be the fifth time Luke Newman from Biggleswade has visited the a poor suburb of the town of Nakuru in the east African nation of Kenya.

So far he has helped build classrooms and a nursery for toddlers, assemble classroom furniture and design guttering to help provide more drinking water for the children.

As part of his latest effort to raise funds for his trip, Luke is holding a Christmas craft fair on Sunday from 11am to 3pm at the Weatherley centre in Biggleswade.

There will be stalls, refreshments and a raffle and the event is free for people to go along.

The Comet: Kenyan children with the toothbrushes donated by Luke and his team. Pic: Luke NewmanKenyan children with the toothbrushes donated by Luke and his team. Pic: Luke Newman (Image: Archant)

Father Christmas and a minion will also be making an appearance.

He is also holding a second Christmas craft fair at the Forum in Stevenage on Sunday, November 19 from 11am to 3pm.

Luke said: “The children of Nakuru were extremely happy to see us and after the visits I have completely changed as a person.

“I am more understanding and patient but also much more understanding about what life has given me.

The Comet: Children at the school in NakuruChildren at the school in Nakuru (Image: Archant)

“I think it’s very important to give continual assistance helping build on the progress made by other volunteers and Kenyan people. It helps give children the chance of a better future through more accessible education.”

Luke first got involved in the venture in 2014 through the African Adventures programme run by the Derby County Community trust.

His father and brother had taken part in previous trips and decided to invite him along.

Luke has to raise £2,550 which covers his living accommodation, travel and food on each trip.

The Comet: Luke Newman and Maxwell at the opening ceremony for the new classrooms. Pic: Luke NewmanLuke Newman and Maxwell at the opening ceremony for the new classrooms. Pic: Luke Newman (Image: Archant)

On his next trip in May next year Luke hopes to help build a dormitory to accommodate the 110 children who are having to sleep in cold classrooms at night.

“Children in one of the poorest suburbs of Kenya are in need of support and hundreds of children would love nothing more than to have a bit of our time and attention and a chance of a decent education,” he added.

If you want to donate to Luke’s projects you can do so online at www.bit.ly/JGNEW18.