Model links up to boost charity

BIG-hearted glamour model Jade has lent her support to save the plight of orphans in war-torn Africa.The Page three girl has joined forces with Brantham charity worker Maralyn Bambridge and photographer Nicky Lewin in a bid to help save a school for orphans in Rwanda.

By James Fraser

BIG-hearted glamour model Jade has lent her support to save the plight of orphans in war-torn Africa.

The Page three girl has joined forces with Brantham charity worker Maralyn Bambridge and photographer Nicky Lewin in a bid to help save a school for orphans in Rwanda.

Jade, a presenter with Playboy TV, will be guest of honour at an exhibition of photographs taken by Mr Lewin from the troubled east African country to raise money for a school for orphans that is about to close in the capital Kigali.

Five pictures are to be auctioned. Depending on the success of the auction, sponsorship of three teacher's wages – around just £20 each a month – is also to be considered.

The show will be held on Thursday at The Masonic Hall, South Street, in Manningtree.

The photographs focus on the work of Maralyn Bambridge who runs the charity Engalynx. They include pictures of the orphans, Kigali Central Hospital, and Maralyn visiting Kigali's slums.

But there also pictures that cast a ray of hope amid the gloom – boys playing football with a ball made out of black bin liners and twine.

Snapper Mr Lewin was on his third visit to the country.

Some of the older orphans he had met previously in 1994 when they were desperate refugees from the genocide that shocked the world.

Previously he has also pictured the plight of Aids victims in Ghana.

He told the Star that Jade, who has embarked on a budding comedy acting career, had taken a keen interest in the welfare of the orphans – and offered to do anything to help.

She will be at the event that starts at 7pm. Entrance fee £2.50.