TWO walkers from Darlington are organising a sponsored hike to support The Samaritans.

New media editor at The Northern Echo, Sheelagh Caygill, and Peter Ballard will lead a small group of walkers on a hike in the Lake District on Saturday, September 8.

They plan to climb England's highest peak, the 3,210ft Sca Fell Pike.

However, the route may change to a more easterly peak if the weather is poor.

They hope to raise at least £600 for the Darlington Samaritans and so far five walkers have signed up for the challenge.

Anyone else wanting to join them or to sponsor a walker should contact Peter Ballard on (01325) 260204 or 07850 952312, or Sheelagh Caygill on (01325) 286647.