A TADLEY couple have returned from meeting the child in Nicaragua they have been sponsoring for more than a year.

Geoff and Christine Allwright, both 59, also met the two children who were being sponsored by their son and daughter-in-law through the child development charity Compassion UK.

Christine, a part-time finance assistant, said: “The thing I will remember the most is the love and care of the Compassion staff and the embrace of Geyson our sponsored child – despite the miles between us he is very much part of our extended family.

“We met 15-year-old Geyson at his hotel along with his project director. He has grown into such a lovely young man, with a very smart haircut. We gave him an album filled with photos of our family which he loved. We then spent the afternoon at the zoo.”

One of the main problems facing young people in Nicaragua is gang culture. Geoff said: “Geyson’s project director explained how gang culture is one of the main challenges the staff see in the area.

“Some of his friends are already involved in gangs, but Geyson chooses to stay out of trouble. The support and care of the Compassion staff are helping him to make positive choices for his life, despite the difficult circumstances,” the travel company manager said.

Geyson lives on the plains of Managua, where about 6,000 people live, where most adults work as free trade zone workers, earning £66 a month.

The Allwright’s sponsorship of £25 a month enables Geyson to be part of his local Compassion project where he receives nutritious meals, emotional support, medical attention and the chance to get a good education.

Christine added: “If you are considering sponsoring a child, please do so.

“You are giving that child the priceless gift of hope for a better future.”