I AM hoping to encourage friendly and hospitable people in and around York to join an existing group of volunteer families who, from time to time during the year, invite international students into their homes for a weekend.

These students can be from any country but are studying at universities and colleges in Britain. Christmas and New Year can be a difficult and lonely time when halls of residence at their places of study are likely to be empty.

Host is a charitable organisation founded in 1987. The scheme's objective is to enable international students to participate in and learn something of our culture by spending a few days as part of a British family to foster international friendships. As the regional organiser for North, South and East Yorkshire, please contact me on 01609 772602 for more details and an information pack.

Mrs Mabel Winson,

Voluntary Regional Organiser, HOST, Penhill Court,

Romanby, Northallerton.