The search is on for a team of volunteers from Swindon to travel to South Africa to undertake a charity project at a country hospital.

They are wanted to refurbish a disused two-storey mission building in the grounds of the St Apollinaris Hospital in KwaZulu Natal.

The aim is to turn the building into a resource centre for local poor children, many of whom are AIDS orphans.

The team of volunteers is being put together by the charity Hands Around the World.

It wants the team to carry out the project in April next year and have organised a public meeting for anyone interested in taking part.

This will take place at 7pm on Thursday at the new hall, Swindon College, and anyone who wants more information is asked to ring 01594 560223.

Charity spokesman Dr David Steiner said: "We are looking for a cross section of people to join the team, young and mature, men and women, skilled and keen amateurs.

"It's good to have a mix of personalities but vital qualities include a willingness to try anything.

"They must have enthusiasm, adaptability and a sense of humour."

In the past five years Hands Around The World volunteers have worked on projects in India, Kenya, Zambia and South Africa.

, Uganda, Malawi and Brazil.