THE Northern Echo has teamed up with Help For Heroes to launch the “Keep it up for England” challenge – a footballing initiative that will see the whole of the country honing its skills ahead of this summer’s European Championships in France.

Following its launch this morning, “Keep it up for England” will see people of all ages and abilities attempt to juggle a football while raising money for Help For Heroes.

The challenge was launched at Phoenix House recovery centre at Catterick Garrison, where a number of veterans showcased their footballing skills.

Former world-record holder Steve Cram and Radio Two presenter Chris Evans were also some of the first people to shoot a video – with their efforts now live on The Northern Echo’s website, and everyone is being encouraged to get involved.

Another participant showing off his silky skills was former Sunderland midfielder and Darlington manager Martin Gray.

Participants simply have to film themselves doing keepy-uppys – the more humorous or unusual the clip the better – and challenge three of their family, friends or colleagues to do the same.

They should then post their videos to their Facebook page with the hashtag #Keepitup forengland, tag their three friends and donate £1 to Help For Heroes at northernecho.co.uk/heroes.

Throughout the next few weeks, the best videos will be posted on The Northern Echo’s website, along with regular updates on the fundraising effort.

Mo Usman, the outgoing Head of Recovery North for Help For Heroes and manager of Phoenix House, said: “This is a fantastic initiative by The Northern Echo which has been such a great supporter of Help For Heroes and Phoenix House.

“The Echo has again come up with a creative way of connecting with people – it is exactly the sort of thing the charity wants to be involved with.”

Mr Usman challenged all ASDA stores across the North, which are already great supporters of Help For Heroes, through chief executive Andy Clarke. He also challenged the staff at Newton Aycliffe-based PWS and all other Help For Heroes recovery centres.