Hurricane Ivan ripped through the Carribean country in September 2004, devastating an estimated 90 per cent of structures and destroying the island’s famous nutmeg industry.

Kathy and Dougie Moule, of Robin Kerkham Way, were in Barbados at the time and, although 100 miles away, they experienced 120mph winds and saw people being evacuated from more seriously-hit areas.

The experience stayed with them and when they saw an appeal for children’s books in a holiday catalogue, they decided to get involved.

Mr Moule (71) said: “We booked our summer holiday to Grenada and in the Virgin holiday catalogue they were asking if anyone could take some books across for young children at schools, because there was a shortage.

“We thought it was a good idea. We saw people being brought off the island and the hurricane was devastating. We felt sorry for the Grenadine people and we both like children, so it was something we wanted to do.”

The couple, who have five children, 15 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren, filled a suitcase with books they bought and had donated, including a number from Lynn charity shops.

They also packed a large selection of crayons, pencils, sharpeners and rubbers to boost school equipment cupboards.

Mr Moule continued: “When we got there, we spoke to the holiday rep and told them we would like to take them to the school ourselves because we wanted to see where they were ending up.

“The children were fascinated by us and the books. Everybody was very pleased with what we did.”

Since returning home, Mr Moule has written to Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin, and hopes to eventually start a scheme where a few books are carried to Grenada on each flight out there.

They would also like to see other holidaymakers taking books with them. Mrs Moule (73) added: “The people in Grenada were so grateful and the children were lovely. If everyone took just took two books with them it would make such a big difference.”