A teenage girl guide has told how a month-long trip to Ethiopia changed her outlook on life.

Clemy Crowther, 17, of Birkby, was part of a 14-strong group who helped revamp a school.

An A-level student at Greenhead College in Huddersfield, Clemy was proud to be chosen as the only representative from the West Yorkshire South county guides division.

She flew out with 13 other girl guides from across the North East of England.

The group stayed in the village of Gondar in northern Ethiopia, helping rebuild the Andinet Elementary School for youngsters aged five to 16.

Clemy, who lives with her mum Judith, 59, and sisters Hayley, 24, Lizzy, 21, and Philippa, 19, passed an interview and selection tests and then had to raise £2,000 to take part.

Clemy and the other guides helped builders with labouring tasks such as painting, digging and mixing cement.

They also set up summer school classes teaching basic English and dance.

Clemy admitted to being nervous at first but said: “It was very challenging but definitely worth it.

“Ethiopia is a very different world and it was a massive eye-opener for me. It has changed my outlook on life.”

Clemy said her favourite memory was when the group first arrived at the school from their hotel.

“The children were waiting for us and wanted to hold our hands and carry our bags,” she said.

Clemy Crowther with youngsters at Andinet Elementary School in Gondar, Ethiopia
Clemy Crowther with youngsters at Andinet Elementary School in Gondar, Ethiopia

“They were so willing to help and had big smiles on their faces. At the end it was hard to say goodbye.”

Clemy, who attended Salendine Nook High School, added: “I feel like I have changed as a person.

“I am looking after my money a lot more, not just spending it on rubbish. It’s made me appreciate what we’ve got.”

Clemy wants to be an events organiser when she leaves college and organised various events, including a dinner dance and zumba sessions, to raise the £2,000.

Clemy wanted to thank Jill Webb and Dorothy Naylor, county commissioners with Girl guiding West Yorkshire South, and division commissioner Julie Booth at Huddersfield Ramsden guides for putting her name forward.