THE aunt of Croydon war hero Danny Simpson is embarking on a gruelling 100 kilometre walk across a desert to raise funds in his honour.

Karen Brown, 45, is taking up the challenge of crossing the Sahara to raise money for charity Help for Heroes, which supports wounded British soldiers.

Danny, 20, of Shirley, was killed in Afghanistan last July, leaving behind baby son Alfie.

Karen said: "I'm doing this not only in Danny's memory, but also for his fellow comrades who have been killed and for the many other soldiers who have come home badly maimed and injured.

"I'm trying to raise as much money as possible for this excellent charity so they can carry on with their much-needed support and provide the essential help for all our armed forces, at home and abroad."

Danny fought with the 2nd Battalion The Rifles.

To sponsor Karen's trek, which she will undertake on October 26, visit www.bmycharity.com/karenbrownsahara10 or www.justgiving.com/Karen-Brown2.