School pupils have been working to improve the lives of people in southern Africa who have HIV and Aids.

Sixth-form students at South Craven School, Cross Hills, near Keighley, learned about the extent of the problem in Zambia after receiving a visit from Remmy Mukonka, a Commonwealth ambassador of the George House Trust.

Following his presentation, a small group of sixth formers obtained sports and school equipment to give to the Anti-Aids Teachers’ Association of Zambia which aims to help people who have been most badly affected by the disease including vulnerable children, young people and teachers.

Student Kelly Cheung said: “Our school’s students contacted local businesses and distributed leaflets to the surrounding community asking for donations of sport and computer equipment and educational material.

“Overall, approximately 95 computers along with other computer equipment, 600 textbooks and a large assortment of sports clothing and equipment was collected in aid of the charity.”

Year 12 pupil Jamie Rhodes, who led the team, said: “I’ve been really impressed with the response to our appeal from both the staff and pupils of South Craven School and also the local community.

“I’d like to thank the students involved for their effort and everybody who donated items.”