Twelve young adventurers from Tavistock are preparing to push themselves to the limit this month as they embark on an expedition to climb the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales to raise money for armed forces charity Help For Heroes.
Following four months of training on Dartmoor the members of the Devon County Council-run Tavistock Adventure Group, all aged between 14 and 18, will take on the gruelling 26-mile hike to climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales.
Richard Walker from Devon County Council's youth service, who is the Tavistock Adventure Group leader, said: 'The idea was put forward by members of the Tavistock Adventure Group to build on the success of a similar trip three years ago.
'This expedition will provide an exciting challenge and memorable experience, bringing together students at various local schools in to a strong team to tackle the event.'
Freddy Ludwig, whose older brother completed the challenge in 2008, said: 'I am really looking forward to taking on this challenge. We have all enjoyed getting to know each other during the training programme, and are really excited about helping to raise money for charity.'
The group will take part in their final training walk next week, before starting the challenge at Ben Nevis on July 27.
Cllr Christine Channon, Devon County Council cabinet member for schools and learning, said: 'Activities like this help build resilience and a multitude of skills in children and young people, as well as giving them experience of an interesting and exciting challenge.
'Congratulations to all those taking part, both the young people and the youth workers have trained hard for this event. I wish them every success.'