That was the situation David Leslie faced as one of the first foreigners allowed into Burma after Cyclone Nargis.

The former Faulconbridge resident spent four weeks based in the capital, Rangoon, as part of a special response team designed to provide aid to the tens of thousands of victims of the natural disaster.

With over 130,000 dead or missing in the military-ruled country, the 36-year-old said it was "flabbergasting" that the government made every effort to prevent aid workers reaching the worst affected areas.

Mr Leslie works for a UK Government department managing Britain's aid to poor countries.

In spite of the their government, Mr Leslie said the Burmese are a gentle and kind people.

"They've pulled together after a cruel blow," he said. "You can see they're starting to rebuild their lives with whatever little there is . . . to stand on the fringe of that and know whatever small things you're able to do to help them, that's a relief in itself."

Now based in London, the former Springwood High School student has not looked back since taking up a position with the department two-and-a-half years ago.

It has taken him to a host of the world's trouble spots – Iraq, Palestine, Sierra Leone – making sure relief funds reach those most in need.

Flying half way round the world then working 15 hour days in these places can be taxing on the body.

"You're there to care for people and help improve their lives but at the same time you're wondering who's going to care for you while you're going through it," Mr Leslie said.

That's not to say that he doesn't enjoy his work. It's allowed him to pursue his passion for travel while helping people at the same time – the odd ride in a military helicopter doesn't hurt either.

"It's been an experience that I would never have passed up and one to write in the journal for the years to come."