BIG-HEARTED Runcorn youngsters are collecting goods for a shoe box appeal for the armed forces in Afghanistan.

The young people from West Runcorn Youth Centre have been involved with the project as part of the Halton Mayor’s Award scheme, a personal development programme for 10-13-year-olds.

It is being piloted at the youth centre with pupils from The Grange High School.

The schoolchildren have to complete a series of challenges and activities, including sport, volunteering and an overnight camp.

Natalie Slonecki, aged 10, said: "I love coming to the youth centre very week and taking part in the team challenges and activities.

"I enjoyed collecting things for the soldiers and writing them a letter to let them know we care about them.

"We also have a food challenge each week and do exciting things in the holidays like walks in Wales, zip wires and visiting places like the Chill Factor.”

For more details about West Runcorn Youth Centre or The Mayor's Award, contact Barry Selby at barry.selby@catch-22.org.uk or 07810158229.

The project is organised by Catch-22 on behalf of Halton’s Children’s Trust and Halton Council as part of an on-going commitment to improve opportunities for all children and young people living in the borough.