A 40-year-old Silsden man is to help build Malawian orphans a new home.

Patrick Smith is travelling to south-eastern Africa in May to help provide accommodation for terminally ill children, and those who have been orphaned and neglected.

His job for one week will include physical labouring, along with a team of other volunteers organised by the Open Arms Malawi charity.

Before he makes the trip he must raise £1,500 to pay for his travel and accommodation costs, with the remainder going directly to the charity. The company he works for - DePuy - has agreed to match the sum he raises.

Mr Smith said: "It is going to be like nothing I have ever done before. I wanted to do it just to give something back.'' Anyone wishing to sponsor Mr Smith can do so by emailing psmith20@dpygb.jnj.com or by telephoning (07917) 577056.