A woman has launched a fundraising drive for her three-month charity trip to Nicaragua.

Twin Holly McGlinchey, of Chestnut Drive, Wanstead, needs to raise £800.

The 20-year-old, who currently works at Pura beauty salon, in High Street, Wanstead, will work with a team of volunteers for Raleigh international, part of the International Citizen Service.

Setting off in February next year, the group will work on projects such as improving local safe water and sanitation supplies.

She said: “I have always wanted to do something like this but I never got around to it while I was a student, it is a great opportunity to travel and help out in a different community.

“When you get to 20-years-old you think this is the last chance you have to do something like this before you enter the world of work full-time.

“I am at a stage in life when I am unsure of what career path to choose and instead of working I thought I would challenge myself with this venture.”

The former Trinity Catholic High School student already has fundraising ideas, including cutting her hair short to donate to a cancer charity and a fundraising raffle.

She is looking for a venue for the raffle, and has already been pledged prizes from high street businesses such as a free meal and bottle of wine from Provender and dry cleaning vouchers from Elegance Cleaners.

Ms McGlinchey said: “I am confident I can raise the money in time, and I am glad I can get involved in great causes while fundraising.

“The raffle will help advertise businesses in the high street and it will also be great to donate hair to benefit a child with cancer.

“Everyone who knows me will know what a big deal it is for me to cut my hair short as I have always had it long, but it will be worth it.”

Support her cause here.