A SOUTHAMPTON graduate has jetted to the other side of the globe to teach people about the dangers of AIDS and HIV.

Tom Mortimore raised more than £4,000 to fund his trip to Tanzania to work in communities.

Tom took specially-designed football shirts, featuring the logos of Hampshire companies, in the hope of forming his own team from budding players in Iringa in the southern highlands.

After graduating in politics and international relations from the University of Reading in June 2007, the 22-year-old signed up to the charity Students Partnership Worldwide to work as a volunteer.

He then embarked on a fundraising mission which included running a half-marathon, becoming an Internet trader and arranging a fundraising curry night and auction.

Tom, of Belmont Road, Portswood, said: "I am amazed at the support I have received.

"Many local people and business have got behind my fundraising efforts including my past schools, Cantell School in Southampton and Barton Peveril College in Eastleigh, and my local church, Highfield Church, as well as both the city's universities.

"It is thanks to the help of all of these people that I am able to make my trip to Tanzania and make a difference for people with AIDS."

Tom added: "Spending eight months working with young people in a country that has been devastated by the AIDS epidemic will have its challenges.

"However, I hope that I can help to make a difference and equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge to create a better future for their country."