A CHARITABLE initiative to help military families and ex-servicemen has been launched.

Iraq veteran Helen Hall, and her father Shaun Bailey, a former detective, have started I Support a Hero to create a support network.

They are selling lapel badges and organising fundraisers to collect money to organise social events for families.

Mrs Hall, a mother-of-two, served with the Army for almost ten years until 2009, and her husband Darren is still with the 1st Battalion Scots Guards.

She said: "The main thing is for people like Darren and myself to make a connection with other people who are based outside a garrison town because there is nothing.

"We want people to know we are here and create a community fellowship for people with a military connection in Consett."

The group’s first event is on Middle Street in Consett from 1pm-3pm on Saturday, June 25, starting with a performance by the Jane Robson Dance and Theatre School.

For more information call Mrs Hall on 0777-543-5549.