A MEMBER of Crediton Taekwon-Do recently spent time after his GCSEs volunteering with Afrikids charity, the leading organisation for children in northern Ghana.

Jasper (16), completed not only health screening work in Ghana, but wanted to support the education of the local community.

Afrikids provide and support education and practical ways for Ghanian children to learn how to provide and grow food as well as giving them access to pathways to a better way of life.

Crediton Taekwon-Do wanted to support Jasper’s fundraising efforts and organised a sponsored “Pattern-athon”, where Jasper and his fellow students aimed to complete 3,132 Martial Arts patterns and movements - the equivalent of miles from his home to the hospital in Ghana where he volunteered.

Crediton Taekwon-Do’s instructor Dave Powlesland IV Degree, said: “Jasper inspired us all to do what we could to support him and I was amazed at the amount we managed to raise!  

“Not only did our amazing team of Taekwon-Do and Little PUMA students achieve this, but they continued and doubled the initial goal finishing with 6,264 movements - the miles required to bring him home again too, raising an amazing £822.”

Charlie Hay, Afrikids CEO, said: “Well done Jasper and your amazing Taekwon-Do group for such a fantastic job raising an incredible £822 for AfriKids!

“We are so proud of you all and give a big thank you from everyone at AfriKids and all the children your support will help.

“The amount you’ve raised is enough to get 150 children into AfriKids Child Rights Clubs, where they will play games, have debates, run quizzes and do drama and dance while learning all about their rights to be healthy, safe and in school.

“At these clubs, they will build their confidence to stand up for their rights and build brighter futures for themselves. Thank you, Jasper and everyone that supported you, for changing children’s lives with AfriKids!”

In northern Ghana, where two in three families live in poverty and one in 16 children die before their fifth birthday, AfriKids is a force for change.

Its award-winning education, child protection, and health projects are designed and delivered entirely by local people, working with their communities to achieve sustainable changes that ensure all children can be healthy, safe and learn.

Mr Powlesland, added: “I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all those who took part, helped organise and donated to our ‘Pattern-athon’.

“I would also like to thank Morrisons in Crediton who donated food to help keep everyone energised.

“Together we really have made a difference which will make a massive impact to those less fortunate than us in Ghana!”