Three men, three kayaks and a dog will take part in a unique set of sea challenges in aid of the RNLI.

Sports injury therapist David Herriott has organised a series of three kayaking tasks, travelling 70 miles in total – the last of which is a strenuous cross-Channel attempt from the coast of Calais.

Mr Herriott said: “It was an idea from last summer to do one challenge across the Channel, and the rest grew from there.”

With friends James Tritton and Iain Emmerson, he is gearing up for the first of the three challenges – paddling to the Goodwin Sands and back to Walmer on Sunday, July 20.

“Harvey, my Jack Russell, likes coming out with us but he can’t come out far" David Herriott, who is planning a challenge that his dog can take part in

The seven-miler is a warm-up for the next event the following Sunday, July 27, thought up especially for his four-legged friend.

Mr Herriott said: “Harvey, my Jack Russell, likes coming out with us but he can’t come out far, so we are going to go along the coast from Deal to Dover harbour, then to Ramsgate harbour and back to Deal so he can come with us.”

The main focus, which the training sessions and earlier challenges are leading to is the cross-Channel attempt, a distance of 27 miles, on a date to be confirmed in mid-August.

The feat has been well planned and a support boat will sail alongside them. Mr Herriott said: “We were going to set off in France, but we are not allowed so we will get dropped off by the boat off the coast of France and come back to Walmer.”

Coming from a family of boat owners, Mr Herriott said the choice to support the RNLI is because it is “close to home”.

Friends and family have started sponsoring the trio and Mr
Herriott is writing a blog at www.kayakingchallenge.blogspot.com

He also has a Facebook page called English Channel, Calais to Deal, 27 mile Kayaking Challenge, which logs the men’s progress, including pictures. He has even gleaned the support of Deal folk band Gentlemen of Few, who will play at a charity night at Deal Welfare Club on Saturday, October 4, where there will be a race night and raffle.

If you would like to sponsor any of the men, offer help or donate raffle prizes for the October event, telephone Mr Herriott on 07870 112823. Alternatively, donate online at: www.justgiving.com/3kayak-challenge/