Brian's journey to help victims of landmines (From Free Press Series)

Brian's journey to help victims of landmines

A FORMER Pontypool teacher has travelled to Cambodia to begin a two-year volunteering programme helping victims of landmines.

Brian Thomas, aged 61, departed for his new destination on Monday and will initially begin his work with Voluntary Services Overseas in the capital Phnom Phen.

There, he will be providing education for disabled children and helping improve facilities for people with disabilities.

"There is a significant number of people in Cambodia suffering from disabilities, about 30 percent of the population and most are victims of the country's landmines," he said.

"They don't have the infrastructure to provide for these people and I will be advising disability organisations, to help them achieve more effect delivery of services."

Born and raised in Pontypool Mr Thomas attended Croesyceiliog Grammar School, before studying teaching at Caerleon College.

He worked as head of PE at St Albans RC High School and also played rugby for Pontypool in the days before "the real Pontypool front row" came along.

He then spent three years in the Bahamas, teaching PE, before returning to the UK and settling in Warrington, although his mother and three brothers still live locally.

After several years working in local government Mr Thomas decided to retire and begin working voluntarily. He has used his background of working with young people in many posts, including his role as liaison officer for the Caribbean team during the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

But it was during his four month round the world trip last year, he became inspired to help people overseas.

"The people in developing countries are so friendly and its good to have the opportunity to get out there and help," he said.

"It is going to be a challenge, but one I am looking forward too."