AN Okehampton GP and a manager of Dartmoor National Park are taking on the challenge of a lifetime when they attempt to tackle the longest annual canoe and kayak race in the world writes Tom French.

Tim Watson, a GP at Okehampton Surgery, and James Aven, a senior planning manager with the park, are taking part in the Yukon River Quest, a 460 mile paddle on the historic route of the Klondike gold seekers from Whitehorse to Dawson City in the Yukon territory of North West Canada.

Their efforts are all in aid of the Prostate Cancer Charity, a charity close to the hearts of both men after the death of James' father Keith.

The challenge will take the pair through unspoiled wilderness, with very little human contact along the river. They will experience the thrill of paddling from dusk to dawn, experiencing the stunning sunrise and sunset as they travel.

It is recognised as one of the toughest adventure ultra-marathon events on the planet, and teams must be equipped so that they can be self-sufficient for a few days should anything go wrong.

Tim said: 'Building up to it, it's mixed emotions at the moment. We're getting very excited, but also quite nervous about the size of the challenge.

'I only started canoeing last year, in anticipation of doing the challenge. James has wanted to do the challenge for a year or two now, and has just been looking for someone daft enough to go with him. That person was me!

'We've been doing a lot of paddling up and down the Dart and the Tamar in preparation, as well as near Exeter.

'We also took part in the Devizes to Westminster race, which is non-stop for 125 miles. It took us 28 hours and 24 minutes. It was exhausting! It was also very hot that day. They call that race the canoer's Everest. It was a great atmosphere.

'We've chosen to support the Prostate Cancer Charity in response to the death of James' father, who died after a brave fight with prostate cancer. I also encounter the disease in my job, having to tell men about the disease and what it can do. So it's a charity that means a lot to both of us.'

To support Tim and James' brave quest to raise funds, visit their JustGiving page on http://www.justgiving.com/devon2dawson">www.justgiving.com/devon2dawson To find out more information, visit http://www.devon2dawson.com">www.devon2dawson.com