YOUNGSTERS used to stepping into the boxing ring are joining a different battle by helping people across the region to beat life-threatening illnesses.

Spennymoor Boxing Academy will join forces with air cadets and local ramblers' groups for a sponsored walk in aid of two charities.

Sixteen boxers, including coach Ernie Spowart and official Mark McGuinness, will tackle the nine- mile walk to boost the funds of Cancer Research UK and ME Research.

Two members of Bishop Auckland Air Training Corps, Jamie Wright and Shaun Foster, both 15, and Binchester walking group have offered to support the efforts by completing the walk from The Black Bull, Frosterley, Weardale, on Saturday, May 8.

Mr Spowart said: "I've been taking part in the walk since it started around ten years ago because it is helps two very good causes.

"The club is always keen to get involved, especially as so many of us are touched by cancer at some point in our lives."

Anyone interested in joining the walk can obtain sponsor forms from Linda Nelson on (01388) 528202, Paul Nelson, on (01388) 527350 or The Black Bull pub.