FOUR members of staff from the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre in Abingdon are aiming to row most of the River Thames to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

James Bateman, Alex Godfrey, Gavin Gumpathram and Wayne Hawkins will start their marathon at Lechlade on Monday, June 4, and hope to reach Richmond by Sunday, June 10.

The foursome, dubbed four men in a boat' for the fundraising challenge, have secured a skiff from Richmond Boat Hire that will act as their transport as well as a place to sleep.

The group chose to support the British Heart Foundation as it reflects their work to promote health and fitness within their individual roles at the leisure centre.

The centre's health and fitness manager, James Bateman works with cardiac rehabilitation patients and holds specific sessions to aid their recovery.

The leisure centre which recently reached its fifth birthday, has continually supported charities.

Last November, James, Alex and Wayne helped to raise more than £2,500 for Children in Need by allowing members of staff to wax their chests.

Mr Hawkins, the centre's operations manager said: "We are very much looking forward to this exciting challenge and hope that members of the public will support us."

  • For sponsorship details see www.fourmeninaboat.moonfruit.com