THE Army's Be the Best slogan is to be put to the test for charity later this year.

Teams from across the region have been chall-enged to take them on in a series of hurdles which put both mental and physical skills to the test.

The Jake Burgess App-eal has already benefited from an assault course challenge at Catterick Garrison in 2000.

But this September's event has been extended to include tests of mental agility in the gym as well as the contestants' ability with a rifle.

Organisers are preparing for up to 200 competitors in teams of six.

It costs £5 per person to enter, although it is hoped each team member will boost the fundraising total further through sponsorship, which should be handed in on the day of the competition on Saturday, September 21.

There are prizes for the overall winners as well as for the best civilian team, with an authentic Gurkha curry and liquid refreshment offered to all the participants at the end of the day.

The cash they raise will go towards the fund set up to cover the costs of sending autistic Catterick youngster Jake Burgess to the Options Institute, in the US, for specialist treatment.

Parents Claire and Tim have already benefited from training there, learning techniques which have helped them break into Jake's isolated world through play.

"I'm really pleased with him," said Mrs Burgess yesterday.

"He's come on really well and I can now spend a day at a time at Bedale's Mowbray School with him.

"We're still hoping time at the institute will make a big difference.''

Anyone interested in entering this year's challenge should ring (01748) 812431 or (07733) 056314.