TWO river experts are taking the plunge and tackling the Ribble Way Challenge.

Jack Spees, director of the Ribble Rivers Trust, and Mark Rudd, fisheries officer for the Environment Agency, will talk 72 miles non-stop from the estuary at Preston to the source of the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales.

The walk will begin at the Dolphin Inn at Longton early tomorrow and continue throughout the night, reaching the finish line on Gayle Moor early on Saturday morning.

They will be supported by friends and family at several ‘re-fuelling stops’.

Jack, who completed the 100km Oxfam Trailtrekker, said: “I have no doubt that it’s going to be tough. The Ribble Way is 15km longer than the Oxfam walk I did a few years ago but the opportunity to raise money for two very good causes means our efforts will be worthwhile.”

So far over £3,700 of the £4,000 target has been raised and the money will be split equally between the Ribble Rivers Trust and WaterAid.

“There are similarities between the two charities," said Mark. “Both strive to provide clean water for people, one on a global scale and the other at a very local level.”

To sponsor the two men, text RWAY26 £15 (or whatever amount you wish to donate) to 70070 or visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Ribble