Car dealer's got the drive for charity

Car dealer's got the drive for charity

A car dealer with a drive for charity has teamed up with Rochdale MP Paul Rowen to raise funds for a school in Kenya.

Terry Mason and Paul Rowen MP gathered a lump sum of £1659 after a fundraiser at India Lounge on Spotland Road.

Funds will go towards a new building for the school in Marigat, Kenya.

Paul Rowen MP said: “Over the years Rochdale has developed a close link with Marigat.

“On a recent visit a couple of years ago I witnessed the very crowded conditions and I was appalled to see over 60 children crammed into a classroom.

Paul added: “"The Kenyan government when it was elected in 2005 introduced free primary school education but did not provide any more extra schools or classrooms. Teachers have been forced to teach children in two shifts, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon.

The Parish Priest, Father Peter, decided to try and raise the money to buld a new school. I visited last July when the first two classrooms were being built. The money we raised has gone towards the building of these classrooms.”

Terry Mason said: "Everyone had a very enjoyable evening - the India Lounge was packed and I am delighted at the amount of money raised that will go towards these classrooms.

“It just goes to show how generous the people of Rochdale are, even during these difficult economic times. I'd particularly like to thank Raj from the India Lounge and all those who attended. We plan to organise another fundraiser in the Autumn."