A CHARITY youth worker is preparing to run barefoot through scorching coals, to help improve youth facilities in a Blaenau Gwent community.

Melony James, 22, from New Inn, is preparing to take the Flaming Fire Walk across hot coals at an all-day charity event being held at the Bridgend Hotel, Ebbw Vale, on Bank Holiday Monday.

Melony, who works for children's charity NCH Cymru at the Winchestown Family Centre, near Brynmawr, hopes to raise £1,000 from the daring bare-foot challenge.

"Walking bare-foot across hot coals is not everyone's idea of a perfect way to spent a Bank Holiday," said Melony.

"But I always loved a challenge or a dare and no-one else was prepared to give it a go."

The funds will go to supporting the youth work of NCH Cymru's Winchestown Project.

Melony added: "I know from my own work within the project that the youth centre will have a very positive impact on the community's long-term future. That is really why I'm doing this."

The NCH Winchestown Family Centre is funded by Nantyglo Communities First Partnership, the Corus Regeneration Initiative and Sure Start. The project provides support to children, young people and families living in the Winchestown and Nantyglo areas.

NCH Cymru staff will be running a full programme of self-improvement groups and after-school clubs at the centre from mid-September, including a new cookery challenge and fitness groups.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Melony can contact her on 01495 315318.