A YOUNG fundraiser is set to tackle a trek alongside her mum and grandmother in aid of an organisation close to their hearts.

Niamh Long, nine, has been raising money for Phoenix Heroes, which provides PTSD support to war veterans, for the last four years.

After taking part in a charity event in aid of the homeless when she was six years old, she climbed Mount Snowdon and had set her sights on tackling the UK’s highest peak Ben Nevis.

The coronavirus pandemic, however, put a stop to her plans, so Niamh has instead decided to take on a pier-to-pier walk on July 10.

Starting in Clacton, the young philanthropist will walk a total of 17 miles along the coastline with family members as she walks to Walton Pier and back again.

“We put our heads together and have decided to do a pier-to-pier walk, a good distance to hopefully help encourage donations,” added proud mum Tia, 33.

“We are aware how difficult this year has been on people, and so how ever little or much we raise, at least we know it’s going to a worthy course.

“It is more about spreading the word of this amazing organisation because they do not only look after veterans, but they also go above and beyond to help all families.”

One family the non-profit community interest company, run by Gary and Sue Stockton, did support, was Niamh’s.

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When her mum Tia was going through a dark time, Phoenix Heroes provided her with counselling – a generous gesture which has not been forgotten by Niamh.

Tia said: “My daughter met Sue and Gary when she was six and from that day on we have had a special bond with this organisation, which we now class as family.

“It is our favourite because we are never made to feel a burden and we will continue to do support it for the rest of our days.

“Niamh is always wanting to raise money for this cause because it holds a special place in her heart and I have benefited from the support they give people.

“A year ago I was struggling with my mental health and trying to keep things together when they stepped in and gave me counselling I had been long waiting for.

“They funded it for me because they wanted me to get better, which I can honestly say has been life changing.”

Niamh, with her mum and nan by her side, will take on her charity walk on July 10 and any funds raised will be donated to Phoenix Heroes.

A spokesman for Phoenix Heroes said: “Niamh is completing the challenge to raise funds in aid of veterans and their families who are dealing with PTSD.

“She is a remarkable young lady and the funding raised will help deliver veteran community projects around the UK.”

To find out more, visit www.phoenixheroes.co.uk