A father who moved to Pakistan from Oldham to help the poor and needy is appealing for help from his friends back in the borough.

Mahboob Kakrvi is originally from Pakistan but lived in the UK from 1976 until five years ago when he decided to return.

The 50-year-old, who ran an Islamic radio station in Oldham, has already built a new school in his hometown of Kakra, Mirpur, as well as rebuilding homes following the earthquake.

To date his efforts have helped to raise more than £120,000.

He said: "I helped set up a charity called the Ray of Hope Oldham.

"But I was thinking that if we sent the money over there it could be misused and not properly managed so I decided to relocate there myself.

"When I do something for the poor and needy I feel proud and satisfied that I’m doing something for other people.

"My sons are all grown up now but I come back to the UK every year to visit.

"It’s been difficult but I’m enjoying it."

Ray of Hope Oldham has helped to build a new school, paid for building work and also funds weddings and medical aid. Mr Kakrvi said: "We’ve helped so many people out there and even supported the victims of natural disasters by building 70 houses and a mosque in Azad Kashmir.

"The school is for those parents who can’t send their children far away for a better education.

"There are state schools in the area but standards are very low. Our future pledge is to establish and help set up even more schools and colleges and eventually a university that would provide the highest standards of education."

Mr Kakrvi came to Oldham aged 15 and worked in mills and factories before pursuing a career in journalism in 1978. He began writing for an Urdu newspaper and presented digital television before starting his own radio station.

He said: "I’m very thankful to everybody for their help and I’m expecting they will continue to support a good cause."

To donate call 07440333968 or email rayofhopeoldham@ gmail.com.

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