ORGANISERS of a charity canoe challenge from Witney to Westminster are hoping for a record breaking number of entries this year.

The Adventure Plus challenge will see participants tackle the 127-mile journey in six days in May.

The charity – which provides outdoor activities for more than 5,000 children – is organising the event, now in its third year.

Organisers said being cheered outside the Houses of Parliament will be an unforgettable moment for participants.

Organiser Andy McCulloch, of Witney, added: “There’s a real buzz as the river changes – seeing the buildings get bigger and ending up in the capital on the final day.

“There’s a good team spirit. It is a shared experience. You get to know people very well on the way down.”

Participants of all abilities aged 14 to 70 are invited to join the challenge, with half of the 50 places still available.

People taking part have to raise a set amount of sponsorship – from £250 to £850 depending on the number of days they take part.

In the last two years, the event has raised £40,000 for Adventure Plus, which provides activities like rock climbing and kayaking for vulnerable children.

Along the route, paddlers are supported by a number of church groups who provide accommodation at the end of each day.

Mr McCulloch said: “In previous events we thought people would be exhausted by day three or four but people tend to get into the groove.”

But he added: “It is an endurance event for sure. To complete it is quite a feat.

The challenge takes place from Saturday, May 4, to Thursday, May 9.

  • For more information, call 01993 703308 or visit adventureplus.org.uk