A CHARITY that takes disadvantaged children to Lourdes at Easter is appealing for volunteer helpers.

For nearly 60 years, the Handicap Children’s Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT) has taken children to Lourdes to share a holiday and pilgrimage to the world famous shrine.

But to continue their work the charity needs volunteers to fundraise to pay for the pilgrimages and help out on the trips.

The Darlington branch of HCPT, which was formed last year by group leader, Clare Maddison, is taking four children from the area on its first pilgrimage this Easter and is appealing for volunteers to help out on the trip.

She said: “The trips are an amazing experience for both the children and the helpers. We go as friends and come back as a family.”

Anybody who is interested in volunteering or fundraising for the trust can contact Ms Maddison on 01325-469652.