A YOUNG Holcombe lad is climbing into the saddle to raise money for the homeless this weekend.

Nine-year-old Marley Luterbacher will be pedalling with his parents to East Devon and back to boost funds for the charity Shelter.

His was inspired to hit the road for a good cause after seeing the plight of a homeless man in Totnes.

He explained: ‘I feel so upset when I see homeless people on the street – and really want to do something about it. Everyone should have a place to live and food to eat – and it’s heartbreaking when they don’t.’

He is now committed to the 45km round trip on Saturday and Sunday with mum and dad Andy and Isabelle.

It’s not the first time Marley has hit the fund-boosting trail. In the last two years he has completed lengthy sponsored walks across Dartmoor to raise money for the charities WaterAid and Sea Shepherd.

The family outing will take in Topsham, Woodbury Salterton, Tipton St John, Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton.

Marley admits the two-day slog will be ‘a real challenge’ – but he’s hoping the proceeds from his exertions will make it all worthwhile.

He is anxious to attract more sponsors –­ and to that end is urging supporters to visit his ‘Just Giving’ page where they can be updated on progress made.