TWO youngsters have joined a gruelling trek across the Arctic to raise money for disabled ex-service men and women.

Martin Keegan and Clare Lowes, from Shildon, are among 30 young people from all parts of the country taking part in the 130km Lapland Challenge.

In the group for the first time will be young people from the Army Cadet Force Association's Outreach programme.

The programme participants have been sponsored by International SOS, the world's largest emergency medical and security assistance company.

To participate the youngsters, all under 18, had to raise funds for the Royal Star and Garter Home, in Richmond.

Since learning of their inclusion, Martin and Clare have so far raised more than £700 towards their target.

Fundraising director Patsy Willis said: "We have a target of £10,000 for the challenge this year, which will contribute towards our annual fundraising target of £4.5 million."

John Rowley, regional managing director of International SOS, said: "We are pleased to give these young people on the Outreach programme a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

The Lapland Challenge, which finishes next Tuesday, covers wilderness terrain in Lapland, Finland, Sweden and Norway.

Food and supplies will be flown in by helicopter.