LOWER the drawbridge — three local mothers will visit three castles as part of a fundraiser later this year.

Mel Ford from Bridestowe, Rebecca Wilson from Okehampton and Sarah Haigh from Boasley Cross are taking on the Three Castle Walk, trekking 30 miles from Launceston Castle to Lydford Castle and Okehampton Castle on October 5. The ladies are aiming to raise funds for a mini-bus for Bridestowe's Treetops Pre-School.

Mel Ford said: 'Treetops is such a wonderful setting.

'The children thrive and grow in confidence every day, and they go on super outings. Unfortunately, they have to rely on hired mini-buses or staff cars for these outings, so their own mini-bus would be superb.'

The trio are hoping to raise £1,000 from the challenge.