HE MAY have retired two years ago but a kind-hearted Kendalian proved he had not lost his passion for teaching when he turned a holiday-of-a-lifetime into an educational mission, reports Ellie Hargreaves Will Garnett, 59, originally intended his trip to Namibia to be about catching up with acquaintances and seeing the sights but, not content with rest and relaxation, he joined forces with Sandgate School to shower delighted pupils at a remote African school with games and teaching aids.

The former Queen Katherine School teacher, who lives in Appleby Road, spent three weeks exploring the South West African country but found the most rewarding part the time he spent at Gqaina Primary School - where he delivered £200 worth of numeracy and literacy aids courtesy of fund-raisers at Sandgate in Kendal..

Mr Garnett said that although facilities at the East Namibian school had been basic, he had been touched by the kindness of the children.

"Some schools in Namibia charge the equivalent of 75 pence a term for schooling yet so many families are unable to pay that kind of money. The difference between the rich and poor is stark and it really made me think. It was one of the most stimulating trips I have ever been on."

For story in full see March 16 Westmorland Gazette.