FARNHAM couple Linda and Dave Shurlock recently had the honour of speaking about their inspiring voluntary work for WaterAid at an international conference bringing together key staff from the charity.

The conference was held at Thatcher’s Hotel in East Horsley and ran from February 5 to 9, and saw WaterAid representatives from different parts of the world come together to co-ordinate their vision and message as the charity works towards a world where everyone everywhere has clean water and toilets.

Linda said afterwards: “We have told many schools and community groups across Surrey and Hampshire about the work of WaterAid in helping the world’s poorest communities to achieve and maintain their own access to clean water, good sanitation and hygiene. But this was rather different.

“We were telling the people who provide those uplifting ‘before and after’ stories from the developing world about the fundraising, awareness-raising and campaigning activities of the hundreds of WaterAid volunteers from across this country.”

Alison Gentleman, WaterAid’s international communications manager, added: “The country staff really valued hearing from two active volunteers about the many thousands of supporters in the UK and about the time, energy and effort that local groups and WaterAid Speakers put in to support their work.

“They were moved to hear of the dedicated support of the UK public and gave Linda and Dave a well-deserved standing ovation.”

Dave added: “It was wonderful to meet this group representing the 600 plus staff of WaterAid from such diverse countries. They really energised us to go out and do more to support them.”

For an illustrated talk on the work of WaterAid or to join the West Surrey support group contact Linda and Dave on 07934  839608 or go to www.wateraidwestsurrey.org.