Rebecca is a gold star

Sep 12 2008 by Rebecca Edwards, Chester Chronicle

AN ADVENTUROUS girl has just returned from a conservation safari in South Africa.

Rebecca Bodenham, from Frodsham, was one of three Vale Royal students to receive sponsorship through the borough council’s gold star scheme which is designed to assist individuals to prepare for or take part in various events.

Rebecca, 21, went on an expedition with the Operation Wallacea Trust, which supports activities that directly contribute towards the conservation of biodiversity in certain areas which include Indonesia, Honduras and South Africa.

She said: “The trip was amazing. I study zoology at university and this trip was a fantastic opportunity for me to get experience. I want to thank the mayor and the council for contributing towards the experience.”

Jacob McClellan, of Winsford, and Harry Pickup, of Hartford, were also awarded funds.

Jacob, 15, went to Svalbard, Norway, with the British Schools Exploration Society in July.

The expedition had a number of scientific and geographical aims, including research into the effects of climate change through the measurement of glaciers.

Harry, 12, was selected to play for the Great Britain Cadets baseball team during the European Qualifier Tournament in June. The youngest player in the squad, Harry flew to Antalya, Turkey, to compete. Great Britain came second in the tournament, the best result GB have had in the championships since it began.

The three successful applicants met the mayor of Vale Royal, Malcolm Gaskill, to tell him what the sponsorship had contributed towards.

Cllr Gaskill said: “It was great to chat to Rebecca, Jacob and Harry about their trips and I am delighted the council could help in a small financial way towards them. I want to wish them all the best in the future.”

The Gold Star Sponsorship Scheme forms are available from the Public Relations Officer, Vale Royal Borough Council, Wyvern House, The Drumber, Winsford CW7 1 AH, e-mail julia.thorley@valeroyal.gov.uk or phone 01606 867512.