A SOLDIER from Bridestowe who was in Nepal when a devastating earthquake hit the country in April has spoken of his experiences at the latest event organised by the Bridestowe Church Partnership.

Josh Warne of 36 Royal Engineers went to St Bridget's Church on June 14 and gave a very moving illustrated talk about his army expedition to the Himalayas which ended with the team being caught up in an avalanche caused by the earthquake.

Two of their Sherpa guides were killed and Josh himself was lucky to escape with only minor injuries. The church was decorated with prayer flags made by the children of Bridestowe School and there was a short time of silence after the talk to remember all those who died and those suffering now from the effects of the disaster.

Following the talk, there was a cream tea at the village's Methodist church. The event raised over £800 which will be given to a fund which Josh's regiment has organised particularly to support the families of the two Sherpa guides.

They would otherwise be left in dire straits, unable to access food or shelter and in the longer term unable to educate their children. The fund will be administered by the Gurkha Welfare Trust so that the money will go to exactly where it is intended.

If anyone else would like to contribute to this fund they can send money to Mrs J Reynolds, Close Hill, Bridestowe, Okehampton Devon EX20 4NT. Cheques should be made out to Bridestowe PCC which will then forward the money to the fund.