A GROUP of volunteers from Silsden is heading to Sierra Leone to support community projects.

The contingent will spend a fortnight, during April, in the West African country.

In the first week the team will stay at Freetown and assist with a hospital project and then will move to the coast to help complete a medical centre construction scheme.

Among those backing the initiative is Silsden AFC, with supporter Philip Smith part of the contingent.

Recently the volunteers attended a club game against Widnes FC and were presented with two sets of kit and some junior strips to donate while in Africa.

It is the third time the club has supported such a trip.

"Youngsters in Sierra Leone are passionate about football – some even dug a trench across a road so they had a flat area on which to play," said a spokesman.

"If any other local teams have spare sets of kit or if individual players have football boots in reasonable condition, for adults or boys or girls, we would be grateful for further donations."

The party is being led by Derek Smithson, of Mission Direct.

And others taking part include Silsden vicar the Rev David Griffiths and his family.

Some places are still available for anyone wishing to join the group. The cost is £1,650.

Contact Mr Smithson on 01535 656933 for further information.