David BeckhamDavid Beckham has said he feels “humbled” after visiting the former wartorn country of Sierra Leone.

The West African country remains largely poverty-stricken after a nine year long civil war and assorted rebel activities between 1991 and 2002, with children most affected by the situation.

David explained this week: “I’ve just returned from visiting Sierra Leone in Africa as part of my role as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Though I saw many problems and issues to tackle, I was heartened by the incredible and selfless work UNICEF and other agencies are ground on the ground to help.”

“I was also humbled by the people of Sierra Leone, who, despite the problems they face, keep smiling and are hopeful for the future. They made me feel extremely welcome in their country and I will never forget the experience.”

“One in four children die in Sierra Leone before they reach the age of five and many of the diseases that children suffer can be prevented. I genuinely hope that by visiting the affected areas and spending time with some of the people there, it will draw the world’s attention towards the problems children face not only in Sierra Leone but similar situations across the world.”

However, while his trip may raise awareness for the region, an environment group has claimed David’s jetsetting causes him to have one of the biggest carbon footprints every calculated for an individual.

According to the Carbon Trust, David flew more than 250,000 miles around the world last year including repeated trips between the US and Europe and the LA Galaxy tour of Oceania in November. He also owns 15 luxury cars spread between his various homes in the UK, France and the US, including Porsches, a Hummer and a Lincoln Navigator.

The Carbon Trust estimates his carbon footpring to be around 163 tons for 2007, compared to 9.4 tons for the average Brit and a spokesperson for the organisation added: “With all his money he should be using it at least to reduce his own footprint. He has more freedom of choice when it comes to methods of traveling. He could also choose greener cars.”