A POULTON woman who has never been abroad, is about to set off on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Russia.

Samantha McWhinnie, 23, of Birch Way, will be involved in teaching English to Russian youngsters and her accommodation during her three-week stay will be a tent.

Her trip has been organised by The Girl Guide Association which has asked her to represent the organisation in recognition of her outstanding commitment and enthusiasm to guiding.

Samantha, who works as a nursery nurse, is extremely involved in the movement, as a Brown Owl leading a pack of brownies and an assistant Girl Guider leading a pack of guides.

The trip is part of the GOLD (Guiding Overseas Linked with Development) scheme which gives young guiders the chance to use their skills overseas to help people in poorer countries.

Now, Samantha is busy raising funds for the trip, which costs £1,500 .

Samantha said: "I am very excited about this trip, but having never been abroad before, I am obviously a bit nervous about it too. My family think it is wonderful.

"I have never taught English before, but I am going to receive some training before I go, so hopefully I will be better equipped by the time I go out there. I have no idea what to expect.

"I really enjoy guiding. I love the camping side of it and I like talking to the girls. You can really get to know them which is very satisfying."

After the trip, which is scheduled to take place in the spring Samantha will be giving presentations to interested groups about the trip and how it benefited the people of Russia.

Anybody who is able to sponsor Samantha or donate money towards her trip, should telephone 890834.

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