Bank manager spends 50th birthday helping children in India

Paula Dhanda swapped the presents and parties for volunteering in Kerala, where people still live in poverty.

She volunteered for a month at a local school to help children aged between one year and 16, teaching students English, maths and physical education.

Paula, a bank manager with the TSB in Northampton, said: “Volunteering in Kerala was the most humbling experience. These children had nothing but they were so happy with what little they had. I found it very difficult to say goodbye, but I’ve brought back so many amazing memories.

“Volunteering was a great experience and I met with other volunteers from all over the world who all shared the same love, care and passion for these children.”