A WINCHESTER dental nurse has been raising money to visit a remote part of east Africa where she will help improve oral healthcare.

Victoria Jones, who works at the Bupa clinic in St James’ Lane, will train local volunteers in Tanzania to provide emergency treatment to those in need.

On April 13, she completed a triathlon consisting of a one-mile swim, 11-mile cycle and seven-mile run - all whilst dressed as a tube of toothpaste.

The amount of money raised has not yet been calculated, but it will be used to fund the volunteer training, which costs £5,000 per person.

Victoria said: “It is so important that we train as many rural health workers as possible, as safe dental treatment shouldn’t be a privilege, it should be a basic human right.

“That’s why I’m doing my part by raising some money to help fund the essential training and I’m eternally grateful to those who’ve donated.

“I’m really looking forward to visiting Tanzania to share my knowledge with others and to help give treatment to those in dental need.”

Victoria will undertake the two-week trip, facilitated by international dental charity Bridge2aid, in September, travelling to the Kishapu district in the north of Tanzania.

Belinda LIoyd, practice manager at Bupa Dental Care Winchester, said: “Victoria’s always going above and beyond in her role at the practice, and she already does a lot of work with local schools and colleges to teach the importance of taking care of your teeth.

“We’re very proud of her and know she’ll do a sterling job in Tanzania.”