Trip of a lifetime for youngsters

ROMANIAN teenagers are experiencing life in Ipswich today as they visit the town for a holiday of a lifetime.

The six young people have been meeting supporters of the Love Light Romania Project which helps them and other children in the eastern European country who are affected by HIV and AIDS.

The project's founders, Ron and Jo Jowett, decided to bring the youngsters, aged 14 to 19, to Ipswich after six of the other teenagers they cared for died from AIDS-related illnesses last year.

Colin Lowery, the charity's Ipswich-based UK co-ordinator said: “The children have been excited for months on end now. They've literally been counting down the days.

“It was difficult for Ron and Jo to have to choose which children could make the trip - some weren't well enough for example.

“It's important for the children to see what life can be like. Many of them have suffered unbearable conditions and situations before finding sanctuary in Ron and Jo's care.”

Susan Lowery, who is also a UK co-ordinator, added: “The children are really grateful for all the support and well-wishes they've received from Suffolk people and wanted to say thanks in person to as many supporters as possible.”

During the trip the teenagers will have lunch on a River Orwell Cruise, a visit to Ipswich Town Football Club and a tour round BBC Radio Suffolk.

They will stay at the Hallowtree campsite in Nacton, and enjoy trips to their favourite fast food outlets including KFC, Burger King and McDonalds.

They have already spent some time in Kent and will also be visiting Wales before returning to Romania.

Have you got a message of support for the youngsters? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.