A CORPORAL in the RAF has set himself a gruelling running challenge to help the bereaved children of servicemen.

Christopher Stephen, from Chester-le-Street, is aiming to finish ten half marathons and five mud runs in one year to raise funds for Scotty’s Little Soldiers.

The charity, which was set up by war widow, Nikki Scott in 2010, supports youngsters who have lost a parent while serving in the British Armed Forces.

Corporal Stephen has already completed The Great North Run, Great Eastern Run and Rocksolid Race.

The 29-year-old said: “Knowing that Scotty’s Little Soldiers is there for our families if anything should happen really resonated with me.

“When I heard about the support the charity offers I couldn’t help but get involved.”

The charity provides year-round support to its members through gifts, holidays, education and counselling.

Founder Nikki Scott, added: “We greatly appreciate Chris’s prolonged effort this year. Not only is he raising money for the charity but he has us in his mind throughout the year and will continue to promote our message.”

To donate visit: scottyslittlesoldiers.everydayhero.com/uk/christopher