A BICESTER Guide is spending part of her summer building a sensory garden for special needs children half way around the world.

Rosie Thompson has flown to Peru to help British charity Kiya Survivors, which runs the Rainbow Centre for youngsters with special needs.

A member of 2nd Bicester Methodist Guides, Rosie, 15, of Ravencroft, Bicester, was chosen for the project by Oxfordshire Guides and had to raise £2,300 before she set foot on the plane.

Rosie and her family – dad Simon, mum Ellie and 17-year-old brother Alister – only found out about the trip in January so sprang into action organising a coffee morning, a tea, a South American Night and a barn dance.

Bicester Round Table, Ladies Circle, Rotary Club, Bicester Town Council and local Guides have also contributed to the trip.

Before she left Cooper School pupil Rosie said: “As well as raising funds I have tried to think of events where people can get together and have a good time too.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and been so generous and interested in what I am going to be doing when I get to Peru.

“I am so excited to have been given this opportunity, especially as I would like to work with special needs children as a career.”

During the 10-day trip she will also get a chance to see Machu Picchu and watch the sun rise above the ancient ruins, and walk part of the Inca Trail.

Rosie’s mum said: “Messages via a third party tell us she is having a fantastic time and is already planning a visit back.

“She didn’t have a choice in where she would go, but the project for her is ideal as she wants to work with special needs children in the future, and already volunteers at Bardwell School.

“Rosie loves Guides and has embraced this opportunity with open arms.

“She was thrilled to have been chosen.

“We are very proud of her.”