STUDENTS from Kelly College and Tavistock College are making final preparations to compete in the annual Devizes to Westminster canoe race.

This 125-mile canoe marathon is a major challenge, raced over four days during the Easter weekend, demanding stamina and commitment.

The Tavistock crews are racing in K2s (two man kayaks) and Kelly College, who have competed in the event for many years, are providing the kayaks and training expertise.

The junior crews from Kelly College are: Tom Bury and James Macfarlane; Georgina Killingbeck and Lizzie Tilley; Haydon Brown and Mike Riddiough-Allen; Gem Murphy and Beth Newton; Giles Kisby and Mike Ashley; Roseanna Perry and Anastasia Steed; Jack Ellacott and Ollie MacManus; Chrissie Corlet and Robert Wilson; Sinead Kenna (Tavistock College) and Carlos Citara.

The junior/veteran crews are: Tom Rodgers (Tavistock College) and Pete Rodgers; George Coiley (Tavistock College) and Graham Coiley; Rhys Byrne (Kelly College) and Andy Worth.

In addition to the physical challenge of paddling for up to 24 hours over four days, there are 76 portages, where the crews leap from the kayak, pick it up, and run around obstacles such as locks, weirs, and low bridges.

Essential to the success of the crews are the support teams who provide food, drinks and encouragement all the way along the route.

Training for the event started in September last year and as well as local training, the teams have travelled to Exeter, Newbury and Wales, and had to face hail, snow and frozen canals.

All the crews are raising funds through sponsorship, the chosen charities are WellChild, Children's Hospice South West, and Cancer Research.

Anyone who would like to support the charities and encourage the canoeists should contact Graham Coiley on 01822 611234.