A DEDICATED Malvern man will prepare his paddles and take to the water for a gruelling 120-mile canoe challenge.

Mick Cormack, and six colleagues from the West Mercia Police Federation embark on a five-day River Severn journey on Saturday (June 2).

The event is in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice, and Hope House Children's Hospice, near Shrewsbury.

Officers begin their journey in Welshpool, Mid-Wales, and head down through Ironbridge, Shropshire and Worcester, before finishing in Gloucester Docks on Thursday.

In two-man Canadian-style canoes, they will need to tackle rapids along the way and plan to sleep in fields or campsites overnight.

The team completed the journey in good time last year, raising £1,800.

"We learned a few good lessons last year," said Mick, 49, who is based at Hindlip. "We came a cropper on some rapids, so we think we know how to tackle them this time.

"We've also learned to tie all our equipment down in the boats."

Despite a few mishaps last time, Mick says he is looking forward to the challenge, and hopes to raise as much money as possible for the two hospices.

Anyone wishing to support Mick and his team should contact Andy White, on 07977 541410, or e-mail staff@wmpf.polfed.org.