STAFF at Blackburn Central High School were approached by a student, with first-hand knowledge of the challenges that come with being born with a cleft lip and pallet, who wanted BCHS with Crosshill to get involved with the fundraising efforts of the Blackburn based Northern Cleft Foundation.

BCHS Year 9 students aim to raise £1,000 with a bazaar on Friday, July 10 which will run from 2pm to 4pm at Blackburn Central High School, Haslingden Road, The bazaar will include stalls selling jewelry, food, henna hand painting, clothing, and gifts.

The Northern Cleft Foundation provides free corrective surgery to the significant number of children in India, born with cleft lip and palate deformities, too poor to access medical help so often left unable to eat or speak properly.

Each operation, costing on average just £200, has a hugely positive impact on each child treated.

BCHS headteacher Diane Atkinson, said: "The idea to support the Northern Cleft Foundation originated from one of our students who has first-hand experience of the condition.

"It is an absolute pleasure to be involved and support the fabulous work that the medical teams are carrying out in the outreach centres in India.

"BCHS actively encourages all of its students to participate in charity work and become citizens of the future.

"Come and support our bazaar so you too can make a difference."

To book a stall or for more information please contact Mrs Hussain at BCHS on 01254 505700 or SHussain365@bchs.co.uk.