Alderney children's travel charity seeks support

The cost of children's flights from Alderney to Guernsey has increased

An Alderney charity that funds travel for children to events such as Scout trips, inter-island sporting fixtures and school visits, has made a plea for more support.

Tripsfund said the higher cost of living meant a child’s return flight to Guernsey now cost up to £160 and was unaffordable for many families.

The fund said it had provided about £100,000 of support to the island’s children since 2002.

The majority of this money had been raised through the sale of household items, jumble sales and private donations.

'Significant cost'

Tripsfund founder Jim Phillips said: "With the growing requirements on charities and the financial pressures on our youngsters the fund is in real need of support.

"We need help with everything from administration to the development of fundraising strategies, or jobs as simple as helping out on flag days."

William Tate, president of Alderney, said it was "vital that we provide off island activities for our young people to broaden their life experiences".

He said: "This inevitably comes at a significant cost.

"Over many years Jim and his helpers have tirelessly worked to provide the financial support to make the trips possible."