TWO youngsters from Leigh have vowed to scale the tallest mountains in Yorkshire in aid of a new charity based in the town that offers support to British Armed Forces families when they need it.

Ethan Stansfield, 10, and Katie Coates, 11, are taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge to raise funds for Shoulder to Soldier, a UK-wide charity based on Church Street in Leigh.

The duo, who will attempt to climb the Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent mountains next Thursday and Friday, are staunch supporters of our armed forces.

Last year Ethan completed a fundraising walk for the Help for Heroes charity and Katie had a poem she wrote for the Royal British Legion printed in a national Army magazine.

Ethan said: "It is important to me to raise some money for the veterans who have given so much to protect our country and keep us safe.

"This will be a huge challenge for us."

Katie said: "I am doing this because I want to help the people who fought for our freedom, whether they need help with furniture removals or just some advice.

"I am determined to complete this challenge and will be going up the mountains with my dog."

Linda Fisher, trustee and founder of Shoulder to Soldier, said: “We are grateful for any support and donations towards our charity.

“Our team of volunteers has been providing support since June, making a difference for armed forces families.

“We require funds to ensure that those who are in need get the right support and advice.

“We understand how hard it is to ask for help and we want to be equipped to provide this support when it is needed.

“This money will help us continue to support our armed forces families in a range of areas, including Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and benefit appeals, welfare support and advice provision of goods and furniture as well as arranging appropriate social outings.

“It will also assist and support us with our campaigns to get much needed improved support for armed forces families from both public and private sectors.”

John Magee, chairman of the National Service Royal Air Force Association, said: “This charity is already making an impact, offering professional and trusted support for armed forces families who need it.

“We wish the charity well.”

For more information about the charity, or to make a donation, visit shouldertosoldier.org.uk or e-mail info@shouldertosoldier.org.uk.