The heartache of leaving the Kaa`ba behind is eased by what lies ahead. 300 Palestinian orphans and fifty disabled children, from refugee camps in Jordan, sponsored by Islamic Help donors.

MAKKAH – 300 Palestinian orphans and fifty disabled children, from refugee camps in Jordan, sponsored by Islamic Help donors, joined Lauren Booth in a lifetime journey for umrah.

Before embarking on the five-hour coach journey to the blessed city of peace, Madinah, our group of orphans, disabled children, carers and widows, have the chance to pray the congregational Friday prayer at the Kaa`ba.

If you’ve ever taken your family on holiday you will understand. The lost socks, the last minute dash for the toilet which holds everybody up, the thousand things to remember not to leave behind and the final (manic) rush out the door straight into hours of traffic.