An RAF corporal is set to take part in a gruelling obstacle course in aid of a charity that makes the children of our fallen heroes smile.

The Spartan Military Wave which takes place on Saturday, September 2, at Marston Lodge near Market Harborough, is organised by Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity which supports children who have lost a parent while serving in the British armed forces.

It's open exclusively to the forces community and is certain to test the endurance, perseverance and grit of each and every participant.

To hit this landmark, Scotty's is looking for 150 to 250 fighting fit forces personnel to take on the challenge.

Cpl Christopher Stephens, along with six of his comrades from RAF Marham are raring to go and are determined to be crowned the first UK Spartan Military Champions.

He said: 'I've set myself a big challenge this year to raise money for Scotty's and getting a team together for the Spartan Military Wave is one of them. Scotty's is fantastic and the support it offers the children and families is so important. For me and my comrades, knowing that Scotty's are there for our families, if anything should happen, is extremely comforting.'

The Spartan Race Super takes challengers across a 10-mile obstacle course which includes more than 25 Signature Spartan Obstacles through tougher and more rugged terrain.

Entry fee for the race is a discounted £68 and 20pc of all sign-up fees will go directly to the charity.

Scotty's was founded by Nikki Scott, from King's Lynn, after her husband Cpl Lee Scott was killed by an improvised explosive in Afghanistan, in 2009.

'This challenge certainly isn't for the fainthearted and I have a huge amount of respect for those taking part,' she said. 'Lee was hugely competitive and I know that many of those in the Armed Forces love a good opportunity to challenge one another.

'This is a first for Scotty's and an event I hope we can replicate every year. Scotty's continues to grow and we're now supporting over 300 children which means fundraising is even more important. All money raised means we're able to continue to offer the much-needed support to the children and their families.'

The Military Wave is open to currently serving members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and those with close connections to the Military Community such as MoD contractors. Those wanting to take part can sign up individually or as a team here.