Mountainous fundraiser for Chard firefighter (From Chard & Ilminster News)

Mountainous fundraiser for Chard firefighter

1:05pm Tuesday 29th April 2008

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A CHARD firefighter is embarking on a mountainous fundraising effort as he prepares to travel to Nepal to build houses for ActionAid.

Tom Baker, 42, of Caraway Close, will be jetting to the Himalayan country on October 31 for the charity's Nepal House Build Challenge and needs to raise £3,100 to fund the trip.

He will join a team of volunteers from across the UK who will be working with the Kimaiya people to build residential homes.

The 10-day trip will fulfil a lifetime ambition for Tom, who has been a retained firefighter in Chard for over five years.

He said: "I have always wanted to do something for charity but never found anything that has inspired me to do it.

"I heard about the house building challenge through my sister, who has just started working for ActionAid, and she gave me the push I needed to go for it."

Tom will be working from 8.30am each day and sleeping in a tent on-site during the 10-day excursion.

"Physically it's going to be hard work but I think the biggest struggle will be the culture shock," he said.

"I am trying to prepare myself for the poverty but I am expecting it to be a total eye-opener."

He added: "But I am looking forward to the trip - it's going to be a big adventure."

The father-of-two has already raised £900 and will continue the fundraising with a disco at Chard Rugby Club on Saturday, July 12.

Tickets cost £5 and are available from Holland and Barrett or by calling Tom on 01460-63998.

To donate to Tom's cause follow the link below.

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