An inspired idea by the Real Food Café to support sanitation projects led to emotional trip among inspirational communities

Twenty years ago we opened The Real Food Café in Tyndrum – a former derelict Little Chef, now a much-loved pitstop at the gateway to the West Highlands. When we decided to twin our customer toilets with sanitation projects in Africa, it felt like a small gesture. However, this summer, standing in front of a girls’ toilet block in Malawi, I realised just how far a good idea can travel and discovered the true meaning of hospitality.

A few years ago I was introduced to Toilet Twinning, which supports sanitation projects in some of the world’s poorest communities. I thought it would be a meaningful way to give our toilets a purpose beyond the obvious, and our customers loved the idea.

To date, The Real Food Café has raised just over £21,000, which has helped fund the construction of more than 350 toilets in schools and villages across Malawi. My husband has visited the country several times and spoke vividly about his experiences – the landscapes, the colours, the warmth of the people and the rhythm of........

© Herald Scotland