KIND-hearted Bolton school pupils will play host to a group of deprived South African youngsters in a cultural exchange funded through their own hard work.

The 11 pupils from St Joseph's RC High School, Horwich, will be visited by eight pupils from two schools in Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa tomorrow.

The visitors will stay in the UK for three weeks, taking part in activities and travelling to various parts of the country with the English youngsters. Included in their busy schedule are trips to London, the Lake District, church visits, rafting and canoeing, and a brief spell at St Joseph's to learn about education in Bolton. The Horwich youngsters, who are all aged between 15 and 16, are part of the Ubungani Youth Exchange Programme, set up by former students of the school two years ago.

Ubungani is a Zulu word for "friendship." The aim of the scheme is to establish British links with South Africa, to help children in both countries to experience and enjoy new cultures.

The St Joseph's teenagers have raised more than £14,000 over the last year to pay for the trip, with events such as a sponsored triathlon, a cocktail evening, and church collections. The group have also received funding from Bolton Youth Services, the Commonwealth Youth Exchange, and various local businesses.