SCHOOL pupils are raising money for South African orphanages in a gig featuring young bands.

Twenty students from Durham High School are hosting the concert on Wednesday, to raise money for their month-long trip to Lesotho, South Africa, in the summer.

While there, students will be teaching orphans about the truths behind South Africa's HIV and Aids stigma.

They will also build a playground, decorate a classroom and donate school books to needy children.

The project is supported by the Durham Lesotho Link - a church community based in Durham.

Amy Wright, one of the student organisers of the concert, said: "Lesotho has been a yearly project for students from Durham High School for three or four years now.

"We've just got such a good life over here, and people out there are in need of such basic things.

"We want to change things, educate people, and stop Aids destroying the country."

The CIA has estimated that 28.9 per cent of adults in Lesotho suffer from HIV or Aids.

The concert, at The Loft, North Road, Durham City, will start at 7.30pm. It will feature local bands such as The Catchpennies, North Road and The Gordans.