STUDENTS from Horsforth are teaching cricket in Rwanda while raising awareness of HIV and Aids.

Five students from Leeds Trinity University travelled to Africa last week for a volunteering project with national charity, Cricket Without Boundaries.

The group of second year students, who are all studying physical education and sports coaching, are set to be in Rwanda for two and a half weeks.

They are training local PE teachers on how to integrate sports coaching with HIV and Aids awareness messages and running cricket sessions in a number of schools.

One of the students, Brad Milne, said: "When the opportunity to coach cricket in Africa became available, it instantly appealed to me. Being able to share my passion of sport with others is something I’ve always strived to do and having the chance to do that in Rwanda was a prospect not to be missed."

Another student Mollie Fitzgerald, added: "It’s a great opportunity to expand my skills and improve my coaching experience. It is something that will help me to be better PE teacher and sport coach, and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity I couldn’t turn down. I’m excited to make a difference to the children’s lives and spread awareness of important health messages."

Nina Fryer, a Senior Lecturer in Health and Wellbeing at Leeds Trinity University will also join the students as a mentor. She said: "Nearly 15 years ago, I became interested in health development in developing countries whilst studying for my Masters in Public Health, and I’m delighted to be part of a team and organisation like Cricket Without Boundaries, that are putting these principles into action. I’m really excited and proud to be part of this project with our students."

The students taking part will gain academic credits for the trip, which is being undertaken in place of their second year compulsory professional work placement. They have raised £700 each to take part in the project, covering accommodation, transport and sports equipment which will be left with the schools in Africa.

Leeds Trinity University was the first university to partner with Cricket Without Boundaries in 2013, and since then, 12 students have taken part in four trips to Africa.