A BARROWFORD teenager gave up the comforts of home to work with malaria sufferers in West Africa.

Freddie Bailey embarked on his month-long journey as a medical volunteer in Togo.

The 18-year-old, who lives with his mum Jan in Highfield Crescent, said the trip had made him determined to pursue a career in medicine and help people in developing countries.

The Clitheroe Grammar sixth form student worked as a trainee nurse during the trip, organised by Projects Abroad.

He said: “I shadowed the nurses and helped them to treat malaria.

"It was not as shocking as I thought it would be as no-one died, but the health care over there was pretty basic and nowhere near the standard of the NHS.

“Even though there was a lot of poverty the people were always very welcoming and they made every effort to make sure that I was comfortable.”

Now, the former Primet High School pupil is planning a music event, at the Grand Theatre, Clitheroe, early next year to raise money for the people he met during his travels.

He said: “I was really surprised by how lucky we are over here and how good things have been in my life.

"I would really like to repay their hospitality and I think fundraising would be a fitt-ing way to show my appreciation.”

Freddie, who is concentrating on his studies to attain the grades needed to study medicine, wants to work for humanitarian medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders.

He said: “If I am able to become a doctor I would definitely like to go back.

"Some people suffer from serious conditions, but can’t afford to go to a clinic to get medicine.

"And although I won’t be able to pay for their health care, the least I can do is offer them advice and support.”