An aid worker has called on people to give whatever they can to causes around the world this Christmas after witnessing the devastating situation in Burkina Faso.

Amy Sheppey, who was brought up in Pinner and now works for Christian Aid, recently returned from the West African country where she came face to face with unimaginable poverty.

She explained how it has inspired her to spread the message of giving, particularly at this time of traditional goodwill, and hopes people will think about helping others in need.

The 33-year-old said: “In Burkina Faso, temperatures can exceed 45 degrees. It’s the hottest place I have ever worked but people are extremely resilient.

“Whilst we were still debating the existence of climate change in the west, people in Burkina Faso were experiencing its affects first-hand.

“Farming conditions are now near impossible during the dry season. The extreme heat and unpredictable weather pattern means that people are forced to leave the country to find jobs, or travel for miles by foot to work at dangerous gold mines.

“That’s why we need to support people to develop solutions to the problems they face.”

She noted how charities are doing all they can to help – such as creating safe havens for people to escape to after a day of gruelling labour – but that there are still many situations where the poorest cannot make ends meet.

“With Christmas fast approaching, these kinds of trips always leave a mark on me,” she added.

“It‘s emotional to witness the struggles people face and then come home to the consumerist aspects of Christmas.

“It’s good to indulge a little and celebrate, but imagine how we could collectively support others, if we didn’t overspend at Christmas?

“I plan to be inventive with leftovers, save money and support those who don’t have enough in a world of plenty.”