A HUSBAND and wife duo are travelling to Palestine to rebuild homes destroyed in the ongoing troubles.

Elaine and Stewart Jones, of Gosfield, are visiting the state as part of an Amos Trust initiative to rebuild the houses destroyed by the Israeli Army in April.

This is the second time the couple are getting their hands dirty after visiting two years ago as part of a similar project.

They initially became aware of what was going on in Palestine when they were visiting their son David, who worked in Jerusalem, about six years ago.

Elaine, 67, said they wanted to do something to help.

She also visited in October to go olive-picking, when she saw first hand the homes which had been demolished.

Elaine said: “These people lose everything.

“They are given half an hour notice from the army before they bulldoze their houses down.

“They have no insurance and they have lost everything. It is so fulfilling helping to rebuild the houses.

“The family we rebuilt the house for two years ago have since moved in and had a baby so you’re building a home as well as a house.”

While in Palestine, Stewart and Elaine will be part of a team of about 45 people to rebuild a home for two families to live in together.

They are directed by a volunteer who has knowledge in building and are given tasks to do to help with the project. During the two weeks it takes to rebuild the home, the volunteers will be helping to mix cement, break up bricks and cut wood.

Elaine also said that they have the opportunity to talk to the family and support them.

“We just hope the house won’t be destroyed again,” she added.

“When houses are rebuilt by internationals they are less likely to be demolished again.

“The house we rebuilt two years ago is still standing.”

To donate or find out more visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/elaine-jones24.