THE mother of murdered York backpacker Caroline Stuttle, hopes a London seminar she is to speak at will help keep gap year travellers safe.

Marjorie Marks-Stuttle, from Pocklington, will join former BBC war correspondent Martin Bell at the seminar being held at the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) in London on October 14.

The event is being organised by Caroline's Rainbow Foundation, which was set up following the tragic death of Caroline.

The 19-year-old, from Huntington Road, was backpacking in Bundaberg, Australia, with her best friend, when she was robbed and thrown off a 30ft high bridge while going to make a phone call to her boyfriend in York. She died of severe head and spinal injuries.

Ian Douglas Previte, 31, has been charged with Caroline's murder and is awaiting trial in Australia.

Marjorie, who is organising the seminar with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, the RGS and Objective Training, said: "We want to try and keep people safe, we don't want them stopping their dreams we just want them to do their research to make them aware of what's out there before they go.

"Everyone involved in organising this one-day event is committed to providing practical advice and guidance that will help to ensure that gap year travels are successful, enjoyable and, above all, safe.

"The Foundation is continuing to grow and expand its contact with like-minded organisations, offering positive and practical advice to young travellers."

The seminar programme covers the essential preparations required to ensure that gap-year travellers are successful and safe.

It will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm and is not only aimed at young people, but also their parents and teachers.

Tickets to the seminar cost £20 each, inclusive of lunch and refreshments.

To book a place send a cheque made payable to RGS - IBG to the RGS - IBG Expedition Advisory Centre, 1 Kensington Gore, London, SW 7 2AR, or phone 020 76913030.

Updated: 08:38 Thursday, July 22, 2004