The lead singer of Scottish pop-rock band, Deacon Blue, has thrown his weight behind an annual charity appeal which aims to improve “shocking” living conditions for people in Zambia.

Dundee-born Ricky Ross, made an appeal to generous Scots today at the launch of the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund’s (SCIAF) WEE BOX, BIG CHANGE drive which raises vital funds every Lent.

SCIAF uses the funds for its life-changing work with families affected by hunger, poverty, war, and natural disasters.

In January, the 59-year-old singer-songwriter visited isolated villages in Africa where he met families who rely on farming to feed and support themselves.

SCIAF strives to help many farming families to grow more food and earn a living using sustainable organic farming techniques which improve soil quality and boost harvests.  

As a result, the charity said many have been able to double the amount of food they can grow on the same plot of land.

Speaking at the launch, Ross described how it was “heartbreaking” to see the number of families in Zambia who struggle to grow the food they need or get the necessities of life - which can be taken for granted - such as water, a dry home, or money.

He said: “I found it really shocking that, in 2017, families still have to spend hours every day walking miles to get water.

“However, it was fantastic to meet families being supported by SCIAF and see how money from Scotland is helping them to change the way they farm so they can grow the food they need and earn an income.

“Many are now able to send their children to school, pay for medicine, put iron sheeting on the roofs of their homes so they can stay dry, and even buy a solar panel to power a light bulb so their children can do their homework in the evening.

“These are positive and lasting changes which are helping families to work their way out of poverty and have real hope for the future.”

The people of Scotland, he added, shouldn’t underestimate the “huge difference” even the smallest donations to SCIAF’s WEE BOX appeal can make. “It really does change lives.”

Click here to donate or to find out more about the appeal.