TWO Ambleside-based charities are merging after one of the organisations cited it had 'struggled' in recent years.

Brathay Exploration Trust (BET) and the much larger Brathay Trust, which provide opportunities for young people to develop skills and explore the world, have agreed to join together following an extraordinary general meeting where members voted 'overwhelmingly in favour' of merging.

Malcolm Tillyer, chairman of BET, said: “As a small volunteer led organisation we have struggled in recent years and recognise that by joining up with Brathay Trust we will be able to grow and to continue providing exciting opportunities for young people.