A RETIRED nurse is taking part in a mercy mission to Africa to give medical aid to some of the world's poorest people.

Mary Lear, 63, is on onboard the medical vessel Africa Mercy which is docked in the West African country of Benin.

She has helped thousands of people suffering from tumours who would not be able to get help from the state.

The former theatre nurse at Torbay Hospital was working for the charity Mercy Ships and screened patients to find those suitable for surgery.

She said: "The screenings are a truly overwhelming experience. People travel for days to reach us in the hope Mercy Ships will be able to help them. Adults and children with terrible tumours looking to be healed and given a second chance come to us."

Mary is working as part of a crew of more than 400 volunteers from more than 40 nations.

Last month, 2,500 people queued for two days at the sports stadium in Cotonou, but Mary was also part of an upcountry screening which took place the week before where they found 63 people suitable for surgery.

She said: "I have found the experience of volunteering with Mercy Ships on board the Africa Mercy absolutely wonderful and incredibly rewarding.

"I have been able to use my skills as a theatre nurse to help people truly in need and I have learned new techniques which have developed my skills.".

Benin is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranked 163rd out of 177 nations by the United Nations.

The Africa Mercy arrived in Benin earlier this month for a 10-month stay.

Judy Polkinhorn, executive director of Mercy Ships UK, said: "Our volunteers are the lifeblood of Mercy Ships and allow us to provide free medical services to the poorest of the poor.

"They are all invaluable and we are eternally grateful for their support."