A DEVIZES sixth former has become one of the youngest people to be selected for an 11 week trip to Bangladesh.

Sophie Davis-Birch, 18, passed the final round of interviews for International Citizen Service and will be helping to develop a community school.

She needs to raise £800 for charity before she leaves in June and will be organising events at school. Head of Devizes sixth form Clare Dale said: "We are over the moon for Sophie. It is fabulous that ICS has recognised her many talents and given her the opportunity to make a real difference at ground level in Bangladesh.

"She is undoubtedly one of the most socially conscious young people I have had the pleasure of working with and entirely suited to the role she has been awarded.

"The world is crying out for more young people with the integrity and courage to get out there and make a difference and as always, Sophie is leading by example at the head of the pack. I have nothing but admiration for her and am quite sure she is headed for big things in the world of International Development and Humanitarian Justice".

Sophie said: “I am really looking forward to what I hope will be an amazing experience and can’t wait to immerse myself in a completely new environment.”

International Citizen Service provides overseas volunteer placements for 18-25 year olds and team leader placements for 23-35 year olds.

It is a UK government funded development programme that brings together young people to fight poverty and make a difference in overseas and UK communities.

To donate to Sophie’s fundraising page go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sophie-davis-birch