A TEENAGE cancer survivor has rallied around her fellow Explorer Scouts and Scouts and set them the challenge of raising money for a charity that helps young people in her position and their families.

Zoe Burgess, from Darlington, was diagnosed with cancer in 2010, aged just nine.

Now 14, the teenager and her family and friends took on the challenge of cycling the equivalent of Big Ben to Edinburgh Castle, to raise funds for the CLIC Sargent charity.

The Harrowgate Hill Explorer Scouts and the 9th Darlington Scouts Troupe, who meet at Harrowgate Hill Methodist Church, were put through their paces in the Dolphin Centre this weekend.

Zoe’s mother Tracey said: “I’m really proud of Zoe for organising this with her fellow Explorer Scouts.

"My family have seen the difference CLIC Sargent makes to the lives of children and young people with cancer and their families.

"In our case they helped us access benefits and supported not only Zoe, but also her little sister through what was a very confusing time.

Zoe is now on six-monthly check ups and getting back to her usual self including getting involved with sports. I wish the group every success in their challenge.”

Zoe said: “There are no words that can describe how I felt during that time but I can say I was scared and confused.

"CLIC Sargent helped me and my family through this time by providing us with books and me with the answers I needed.

"I can’t wait to give back to the charity that gave me so much. And with the help of my unit we will be able to do so.”

To support the challenge, visit justgiving.com/ExplorerScoutCycle