A POLICE officer had an emotional week after completing a marathon in Rwanda before meeting a little girl who he has supported with her education and medical care.

James Lodge went to Africa with the charity Compassion UK to raise money to help change the lives of children living in poverty.

The 42-year-old, from Sherborne St John, joined a team of around 40 people taking part in the challenge in Rwanda, where he also spent time visiting Compassion projects to find out more about what they do.

The father-of-two, who is a police officer with the Ministry of Defence, said: “Seeing the impact that Compassion UK is having on the lives of children living in extreme poverty is nothing short of amazing. The people of Rwanda were so welcoming and overwhelmed with our presence and passion to help the future of their children.”

James took part in his first ever marathon whilst in Africa, in an area called Kabgayi, which is 6,000 feet above sea level and extremely hilly.

And he was proud to cross the finish line first, completing the gruelling 26 miles in five hours and 20 minutes, battling through hot temperatures, which peak at 26 degrees in the summer months.

The dad is passionate about fundraising for charities, saying: “It doesn’t matter what charity you are fundraising for, if everyone does something it makes a difference. I’m just an ordinary dad I’m not an athlete but I can still do something to help. That’s what spurs me on knowing I’m making a difference.”

One of the highlights of the trip was meeting eight-year-old Amina, who James and his wife sponsor.

“She is adorable and loves sport,” he said, adding: “We put on a sports day for all the children enrolled on the Compassion project in that area which they thoroughly enjoyed.

“All in all, it was a very hard week both physically and emotionally but well worth it.”

James has raised £1,050 through sponsorship, with the group collectively raising an incredible £49,000, which will help 211 children living in extreme poverty.

“To see these children being given a chance in life and being a part of it is just incredible,” he said.