PUPILS of Mount Carmel RC High School, Accrington, are involved in a fight to get freedom for a Tibetan monk.

Jampel Changchub, 40, was sentenced to 19 years in Drapchi prison in 1989 by Chinese authorities.

Amnesty International consider him to be a prisoner of conscience. He was detained after writing a pamphlet campaigning for the independence of Tibet.

More than 200 postcards have been sent to Jampel by youngsters at Mount Carmel to remind him he is not forgotten.

The school's Amnesty International group meets twice weekly with pupils giving up their lunch break. They also receive support from staff.

Year 8 pupil Sarah Gamson, said the school's hard working Amnesty International group is seeking to put right some of the injustices in the world.

The group recently protested to Mexican authorities about the detention, without trial, of a group of university students. Pupils sent dozens of letters inquiring about the students and some have received letters in response.

The authorities stated "they are investigating the matter." The group intends to monitor the situation.

The group is supported by the Hyndburn and Rossendale branch of Amnesty International, who brought the plight of Jampel to the attention of the youngsters.

Hyndburn MP Greg Pope, has expressed interest in the work of the group and keeps in contact with the school.

Pupil Sara Furness, said: "We enjoy our involvement with Amnesty International and learn about many problems in the world."