A CHARITY Falklands veteran Simon Weston helped to establish has closed due to mounting debts and fundraising difficulties.

The Weston Spirit charity, which had an office in Manchester, helped young people aged 13 to 25 with training and education.

The charity's headquarters were in Liverpool and it also had offices in Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil.

Mr Weston, from Nelson, mid Glamorgan, said: "Whilst it is a very sad day, I am very proud of what we have achieved and would like to express my gratitude to our many friends and supporters who contributed to a very special organisation." He added that youngsters have been directed to other organisations.