Lecturers’ visit prompts fundraising pledge for orphans

Fife College lecturer Ross Stirling has pledged to raise further funds for terminally ill children in India just days after returning from a life-changing trip to Bengal.

Ross, from Lochgelly, and fellow lecturer Fiona McLeod, who is from Kirkcaldy, travelled to the slums of Kolkata to help improve the lives of children with HIV and Aids.

They took clothes and funding to build an extension to the local Arunima Hospice, which provides medical support, counselling and a home for the children.

The money had been raised by Fife College students and staff and by members of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

During their six-day stay, Ross and Fiona met 47 children affected by HIV, many of whom had been orphaned after seeing their parents die from the disease.

They also visited churches to raise awareness of the hospice’s work, as well as touring in rural Bengal to meet tribal communities who are being supported by the hospice.

In addition, the pair bought bikes, cricket bats, footballs and other sporting equipment for the children.

Ross said: “The trip was certainly a life-changing experience for myself and Fiona and I’m already planning my return at the end of the year.

“The next project will involve raising funds for a new roofing structure to the existing building, at a cost of £4,000, which was approved while we were there.

“I’m hoping to continue working with the events students as part of their studies to organise further events which will help improve their skills and also rase money for this very worthwhile cause.”