Families join 30-Hour Fast to feed hungry children

More than 2,000 people were camped out at the Aberdeen Sports Ground last night for the 30-Hour Famine to raise funds for starving children.

The annual World Vision fasting event, which began in 1971, kicked off at 2pm. One family had driven all the way from Zhuhai in Guangdong to take part.

"There is no similar event on the mainland," said Deng Xiaowen, 33, who was fasting with her seven-year-old daughter and even her four-year-old son - the youngest participant this year.

"It is really meaningful. I want my children to learn that they should cherish what they've got, and care for those who are in need," she said.

"They should experience the feeling of hunger, and learn the virtue of not giving up."

Deng said she read about the fundraising event on the internet and thought it would be a good experience for her children.