Kennet multitasker proves shes got what it takes for trip to China
Lauren Hopes, aged 16, has so far held art and craft sales, baked and sold cakes at school and even abseiled the Avon Gorge.
She has so far raised more than £1,200 for the 25-day trip, during which she will be working alongside 60 of her fellow pupils to help build a school in China and teach English.
However, the English language, theatre studies and photography pupil still needs about £800, and proving that she has the endless energy to complete a trek in Mongolia as part of the trip, she has organised more fundraisers, including bag-packing at supermarkets and a craft sale.
Her mother, Sarah Hopes, said: “I am, of course, extremely proud of her. As soon as the details of the trip were announced, Lauren was so eager to participate and immerse herself in the culture of a country so far removed from our own.
“She was also adamant that she wanted to raise the entire cost of the trip by herself, as she wanted to be able to sit on the plane with the knowledge that she had got herself there.
“I know she is my daughter, but it is so gratifying to see someone at her age work so hard to try to achieve her goals.”
Lauren will be helping shoppers pack their bags at Tesco, London Road, Newbury, on Saturday.
She will also be running a stall selling crafts at the Christmas light switch-on event in Thatcham, on December 7, followed by another stint of
bag-packing, this time in Waitrose, Kingsland Centre, Thatcham. Anyone wishing to donate to can send it to Lauren Hopes c/o Kennet School, Stoney Lane, Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 4LL.
