Francis

Just want to say a big thank you to Kabs and the GTS team for looking after us during our recent trip. We returned this morning!!

Kabs was superb - he took us to visit Salifu at his school and then the twins in their compound. Salifu was lovely, very polite, showed us round his school. I was so shocked to hear that he walks for 2 hours each way to get to school and we have agreed with Kabs that we will buy him a bicycle. Kabs is going to let us have a copy of the account, as I believe school fees are payable soon. I will send you a cheque to "top up" his account and also to renew our memberships.

As the twins are still too young to go to school, I am not sure what we can do to help them as yet (any suggestions?) I did take them a toy and clothes when we visited but it seems so little.

We also went on the GTS Wednesday day trip - should be compulsory for all visitors to Gambia - what a fantastic experience! I will never forget the sight of John climbing the palm tree and the incredible hospitality of the people on the farm.

Unfortunately we did not have time to look around the Brufut compound as our son was playing football in SenneGambia for the Tourist Guides - yet another unforgettable experience.

The apartment is coming along slowly, as yet no mains electricity and water from a tank on the roof - but very large and the local craftsmen have done a great job in making furniture to Nick's designs.

Hopefully by the time we return to Gambia early next year, the compound will be completed, with a swimming pool, running water and mains electricity but it doesn't matter, the experience of living on the edge of a real African village and seeing real African life, using the local shops and market, more than makes up for the candle light and cold showers!!

My next task is now to identify a local school within walking distance of the apartment where I can do voluntary work when we eventually live in Gambia permanently. I suppose the school in Kerr Sering is the obvious one but do you have any contacts who can introduce me?

Once again, a big thank you to GTS and especially Kabs.
Looking forward now to the setting up of GES and, of course, returning to Gambia as soon as possible.

Regards Sheila and Nick Plaister

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