A FIVE-year-old girl who pulled on the heartstrings of millions across the country when she appeared in a Help for Heroes video is to complete a 5k running challenge to raise funds for the charity.

Tempy Pattinson, from Darlington, has taken part in a 100m swim and even a triathlon, raising more than £400, after taking the cause to her heart.

Now she is to take part in the Darlington parkrun in a bid to raise a total of £1,500 for Help for Heroes, despite her tender years.

Tempy starred in a one-to-one video with wounded veteran Simon Brown during one of the charity's campaigns last month, which quickly went viral.

Facing it Together showed the bonds between Help for Heroes' supporters and beneficiaries.

Her support began when just under a year ago she asked her mother, Emily, why soldiers marching through Darlington were wearing poppies.

After it was explained to her, Tempy was inspired to show the soldiers 'how much she loved them' and went on to complete her fundraising challenges.

The quest to raise awareness and money for the Service Personnel then led to Tempy’s idea of entering a 5k running event, which her proud mother is fully behind.

Ms Pattinson said: “I think she is amazing, and has taken it all in her stride. She doesn’t see it as changing the world but just doing things bit by bit.

“I am so proud of her and I am awe of what Tempy is doing. She is so mature and caring, and always wants to help other people.”

Since the Facing it Together videos, Tempy has struck up a firm friendship with Simon, who said: "I have been involved with Help for Heroes for almost ten years, and it is great to see someone so young helping to make a difference.

"The support I have received has meant so much to me, and it is all about inspiring the next generation to understand the need for this to continue.”

The parkrun will take place at Darlington South Park at 9am, and Tempy will have support from family and friends, which her mum said would inspire her even more.

Co-founder, Bryn Parry, has known Simon since he first came to the Charity for support in 2008. To commemorate Help for Heroes’ tenth birthday, and Simon’s exploits, he has made a sculpture of the veteran depicting the 25 stages of surgery undertaken.

He said: “Every individual who comes to Help for Heroes for support is unique.

"This was no different with Simon, and his positive approach to life despite his injuries is awe-inspiring.

“His relationship with Tempy shows how a person can prosper in life, and overcome setbacks.