An Ashford cricketer is to attempt to bat for 30 hours non-stop in the aid of a children's charity.

Brakes employee Steve Tanner, 26, is preparing for the gruelling challenge, which will take place in two weeks time.

During his time in the net he will face deliveries bowled at him from a bowling machine.

Mr Tanner plays for Ashford Town Cricket Club and his team-mates will help him during the challenge which kicks off at The Ashford School, in East Hill, on Thursday, February 20 at 1pm.

For every hour he bats he will earn himself a five minute break, so over the 30 hours he gets two and a half hours rest.

Mr Tanner had hoped to beat a world record by completing the challenge.

However he discovered this week that the previous record of 26 hours was beaten only last Friday, by two cricketers in Lincolnshire, who batted for 48 hours simultaneously.

Mr Tanner hopes to raise at least £1,000 for children’s charity, Rays of Sunshine.

Full story and details of how to sponsor him in this week's Kentish Express.