START (Srilankan Trust to Aid and Rebuild Tangalle) is gatherering further momentum this week, as its founder, Paul Cowper, prepares to return to Sri Lanka on a fact-finding mission. Next Sunday, March 6, Paul will be making a poignant visit to Tangalle where he and his family nearly lost their lives in their beach house when the tsunamis struck on Boxing Day. During his two-week stay, Paul will assess the situation, meet with private relief agencies and plan future projects. Paul's flight ticket to Sri Lanka has been generously donated by Tenby Travel, while he has also been given £250 by Ocky White to help with his expensesduring the visit. Said Paul this week: "START is moving into another phase. Significant sums of money have been generously donated by the people of Pembrokeshire, particularly school children. "Much more is expected, with major fund-raising events already planned. Now we need to identify projects of most value to the people of Tangalle and plan how to deliver direct and effective assistance. "I have made contact with a number of private sector relief agencies operating near Tangalle. We are looking to work with them to benefit from their local knowledge and experience. We know that aid is still only trickling through to Tangalle. "The trustees of START have a responsibility to ensure that funds are applied effectively and fully. I shall ensure that my time in Tangalle is well spent." Paul will also be visiting a number of schools to lay the foundations for permanent links between Pembrokeshire and Tangalle schools. "In the future we plan to have internet connections between schools," continued Paul. "This could give a major psychological boost to the children who have lost so much. "I would urge individuals, businesses and organisations to show their support by donating funds to the sustained regeneration of Tangalle. "START has always said that we are in this for the long term. If everyone gets behind us we can make a huge difference to the lives of people in one small area of Sri Lanka." Donations can be sent to Ian Williams, treasurer, The Alexander Partnership, Chartered Accountants, Barclays Bank Chambers, 18 High Street, Tenby. Cheques made payable to START. If you are thinking of planning a fund-raising event or can offer any help, then please contact Paul or Jane Cowper on (01834) 813997. FOOTNOTE: To help him get around in Tangalle, Paul is keen to take with him a fold-up triathlon-type bike. If anyone has one he can borrow, please contact Paul on the above telephone number.