Charity Cross Channel Swim

Teams of six swimmers will be smearing on goose fat as they bid to match the feat famously achieved by Little Britain star David Walliams four years ago. Walliams, 38, completed the crossing in 10 hours and 30 minutes after training for 11 months to get in shape.

The 21-mile relay swim from Dover to France is one of five major events being held to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kent Air Ambulance.

Teams from Air Ambulance at Dunsfold near Horsham, West Sussex, will also be involved in raising funds.

Each team will consist of two supporters and six swimmers who will take it in turns to swim for an hour.

Only five boats are available so anyone interested is urged to reserve their boat now.

East Sussex fundraiser Bridget Pepper said:

"This is a first for the charity and a unique opportunity. It's going to be gruelling but something that participants can be very proud to be part of.

"More people have climbed Mount Everest than swum the channel, that's how challenging it is."

Only 10 percent of people who try to swim the English Channel actually manage to complete the crossing.

The Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance service costs around 3.4 million annually, and the charity relies entirely upon the generosity of the public to stay airborne.

The Air Ambulance swim is due to be held between July 8 and 12, date to be confirmed, depending on weather and tides.

A minimum sponsorship of 6,000 per team is required.

To take part call Bridget Pepper on 07800 649246 or visit the website at: www.kentsurreyandsussexairambulance.co.uk