STOURPORT'S very own caped crusaders will be braving freezing waters on their next mission - a fund-raising New Year's Day dip.

Kind-hearted youngsters, 11-year-old Tom Sheldon and Elliot Preece, 12, are taking part in the annual Saundersfoot Swim to raise money for their Scout troop and the Action for ME charity.

While most people are likely to be nursing January 1 hangovers, the dynamic duo, will be taking the plunge off the Welsh beach dressed as comic heroes, Batman and Robin.

The best friends have decided to split the cash raised between two causes close to their hearts.

Tom's mother, Louise Sheldon, has suffered with ME for five years and hopes the efforts of her "two little helpers" can raise awareness of the illness.

The 37-year-old explained: "More people have heard about ME but a lot do not understand what it is. It is an illness that fluctuates and I can have good and bad days.

"When it has been at its worst I have been bed-ridden. It has certainly made us prioritise the things in our lives. When I am having a good day, nothing now comes before my family and friends.

"The other thing people do not realise is that children can be affected by ME. I cannot imagine what it must be like for a child to go through what has happened to me. It must be horrendous."

Mrs Sheldon, who is also supported by her eight-year-old daughter, Kate, and husband, Chris, emphasised the important part the Scout group has played in Tom's life since she was diagnosed.

The money raised for the troop will help pay for vital running costs.

"Super-heroes" Tom and Elliot said they were looking forward to their big swim, but they had not devised a special training programme.

Elliot, who has been voted the troop's Scout of the Year, said: "I have seen people taking part before and it looked like great fun. We want to raise as much money as we can."

Sarah Preece, Elliot's mother, had to get behind the sewing machine to create her son's Robin costume but was sure it would be worth the effort.

She said: "We are all so very proud of both of them. The two families are going down there to cheer them on. It is touching to see them doing something just to purely help others."

For more information about ME, visit the Action for ME website at www.afme.org.uk. Kidderminster Hospital also runs a clinic for people with the illness.

Anyone who wants to support the youngsters' efforts can contact Mrs Sheldon on 01299 824900.