A BRAVE schoolboy is set to scale the highest mountain in England to raise money for a charity which supports young adults with autism and learning disabilities.

Albie Bareham, of Holland-on-Sea, is climbing the 978m Scafell Pike in the Lake District this July to raise money for the Sailship charity in Clacton.

The ten-year-old is taking on the challenge with his dad, along with climbing instructor Stephen Mayzes, and hopes to raise £1,200 for the cause.

The charity is close to the youngster’s heart because older brother George, 12, has severe autism and learning difficulties.

He lives at a residential home in Lincolnshire.

Mum Sadie, 42, said Albie, who goes to St Philomena’s School, decided to embark on the climb on their way back from a summer holiday last year.

The family trekked up a mountain and Albie loved the experience which spurred him on to tackle Scafell.

“Albie is a little boy who has gone through a lot,” Sadie said.

“George comes home every other weekend and we as a family cherish our time together.

“On our way back from our holiday about 15 months ago Albie announced that he wanted to do something to help people with autism.

“We looked into local charities that Albie could support. That’s when we heard about Sailship in Clacton, and because it’s a local charity he can meet the people his money has helped.”

Albie starts the epic challenge on July 28 and it should take the three-strong team two days to complete their high-level trek.

He has also been training at Hieland House in Tendring each week in a bid to get him prepared.

“He’s such a good little boy,” Sadie added.

“He’ll be visiting the people at Sailship before he goes to see how he is helping.

“I am so proud of him because this challenge has come all from him and he’s so excited to get started.”

People can donate to Albie’s fund by visiting JustGiving.com and searching for ‘helpalbietothetop’.