PLUMBERS and bricklayers who are more used to working in homes around Runcorn and Widnes are heading to a school thousands of miles away in Uganda.

to help renovate classrooms.

Three members of Halton Housing Trust’s Construction Services Team will join workers from Chester and District Housing Trust on Thursday, February 24, to spend three-weeks in the town of Fort Portal.

Widnes men Martin Ambrose and Steve Bounds, along with Steve Morgan from Liverpool, who all work for Halton Housing Trust, will pass on their plumbing and bricklaying skills to African apprentices who are helping to renovate a school.

Martin, 63, said: “Chances to do something like this don’t come around very often. I’ve been a bricklayer since I was 15 so it’s great that I’m going to be able to pass on my skills to someone who really needs it.

“It’s hard to imagine what it is going to be like out there. Their lives are so different to ours.”

Fort Portal, in West Uganda, is an area of extensive need where there is a life expectancy of between 48 and 52 years. The average income is just $220 a year, with 22 people dependent upon every income earner.

The team will be swapping winter in Halton to work in the 30 degree African heat. 

Martin added: “I’m currently working on a project to fit miles of new fencing for our customers in Runcorn and Widnes, so I imagine Africa is going to be quite a change.

“I’ve no idea what to expect, but I’m very excited to see what it’s going to be like out there.”

The team will take tools and equipment ranging from hammers and screwdrivers to mobile phones to leave with the apprentices.

“We hope that our team can have a long-term impact on the area,” said Halton Housing Trust’s Chief Executive Nick Atkin.

“It will be an amazing experience for our staff. It’s a chance for them to use the skills that they have developed over the years to benefit people less fortunate.  They will also bring back skills and experience which will be of benefit not only to the three of them but also to the wider organisation.”