Trainee reporter Chris Beckett is preparing to perform a daring fire walk across burning coals to raise money for a children's charity.

The South Wales Echo journalist is fundraising for the Belt Up School Kids charity by taking part in the red-hot walk on January 31.

He is practicing "mind over matter" exercises before the charity stunt - which traditionally can only be performed by Buddhist monks of the Far East.

But brave Chris (right) is putting his fear of scorched soles and burning blisters behind him to take a trip over the blazing lumps of coal.

Chris, (24), said: "I'm doing two hours of training before I start the fire walk.

"It might sound dangerous but I think it's a real challenge - and most importantly all in aid of a good cause.

"And it will be a great story to tell in the pub - how many people can say they've walked across burning coals!"

BUSK is backed by ex-Stereophonics drummer Stuart Cable. The charity campaigns for school buses to have individual seatbelts for each child.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Chris can contact him on 02920 583710.

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