Debts close Weston youth charity

Simon Weston said the decision to close was blamed on mounting debts

The youth charity which was set up 20 years ago by the Falklands War veteran Simon Weston has gone out of business because of financial difficulties.

Weston Spirit, which is based in Liverpool and has six centres across the UK, blamed the decision on mounting debts.

The charity, set up by the former Welsh Guardsman, offered development help for disengaged young people.

Mr Weston said it was "with great regret" the charity had ceased trading.

"A combination of factors have made fundraising very difficult in recent years and mounting debt sadly forced what was a very very difficult decision for the trustees and the executive," his statement on the charity's website added.

Whilst it is very sad day, I am very proud of what we have achieved Simon Weston

"We would like to use this website as an opportunity to celebrate our 20 years of delivering life changing opportunities to over 85,000 vulnerable young people. "

The Weston Charity has six centres across the UK including in Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff.

"This would not have been possible without our fantastic staff and our loyal supporters, " Mr Weston's statement continued.

"Our young people have been signposted to other youth organisations who have agreed to offer ongoing contact.

"Whilst it is very sad day, I am very proud of what we have achieved and would like to express my personal gratitude to our many friends and supporters who contributed to a very special organisation".

The former Welsh Guardsman, who is originally from Nelson, south Wales and was badly burned in an attack on the Sir Galahad warship, in the Falklands War.