HMS Endurance sailors have raised over £1,300 for an orphanage in Western Ghana which has enabled the charity to start building a new kitchen.

Over 30 of the ship’s company worked for two days in physically demanding conditions, digging foundations and laying the concrete floors. The sailors were eager to assist and enjoyed utilising their energy and skills to make a positive difference to the everyday life of underprivileged orphans in Ghana.

Football strips donated by The Football Association and Portsmouth FC were given to the orphans and this was the first time in recent memory many of these orphans had proper sports kit and their enthusiasm was evident in a game of international football. Despite some fine defending by HMS Endurance’s team, the orphans managed a resounding win.

In addition, the local orphans were able to experience life onboard a Royal Navy Warship when they visited HMS Endurance - this was a unique opportunity for both parties to experience some of each others way of life.

Captain Bob Tarrant, Commanding Officer of HMS Endurance said: "I am proud that HMS Endurance and The FA were able to bring a better standard of living to some of the most deserving children in Ghana."

Endurance is half way through her 18 month deployment and you can catch up with all of her activities throughout the year by visiting the official HMS Endurance Tracking website.