The Argus has sponsored a water pump in Zimbabwe that will help save lives and keep children healthy.

The Elephant pump is based on ancient Chinese technology and is made from local materials by local people.

They are also trained to service it if it goes wrong, meaning they can be completely self-sufficient and don't need to rely on outside help.

The unique pump was designed by charity Pump Aid, which is one of the few charities still operating in Zimbabwe in the difficult political climate.

Director Ian Thorpe said:

"So far our pumps are 96 per cent maintenance-free, which means very little servicing is needed but it gives villagers a real sense of ownership. Up to 1,000 people can have their lives restored by a pump"

The pump sponsorship scheme is run by water cooler company Aquaid, which donates money from each water bottle it sells.

Another director, Phil Sweeting, visited The Argus to present a certificate of water sponsorship to editor Michael Beard.

Mr Sweeting said: "It's great to see people given the opportunity to live again."