A dynamic duo will prove their mettle by swimming across the English Channel, weeks after completing a demanding Ironman Challenge.

Friends Matt Newberry and Steve Mitchell decided to complete these incredible feats in order to raise money for the Michael Sobell House at Mount Vernon Hospital.

The cause is close to their hearts as it was there Mr Mitchell’s mother and Mr Newberry’s mother-in-law, Pauline Mitchell, was treated and cared for, prior to her death from breast cancer.

The daredevil duo completed the triathlon on August 1, swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 miles and running 26.2 miles – all in 12 hours and 24 minutes.

But they say they will undertake the ultimate test of endurance on Wednesday, September 29, by swimming the English Channel wearing Speedos, goggles, swimming hats and greased in goose fat.

Mr Newberry, 33, of Lower Road, Nash Mills, said: “Pauline fought cancer for nine years, for six she was in remission and then suddenly it came back again.

“Her death five years ago was devastating for the family, this year she would have been 60.

“Michael Sobell House provided Pauline with excellent palliative care, they went above and beyond - so we thought what better than to take part in these extreme challenges and raise money for a fantastic cause.”

Mr Newberry and Mr Mitchell, 33, will set off for Dover in the early hours of the morning and relay swim across the 21-mile waters to Calais.

The route they intend to take will cut across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, so the pair will not only have to brave freezing temperatures but also avoid boats crossing the waters.

Mr Mitchell, of Mill End, Rickmansworth, said: “The Ironman challenge was pretty tough, especially towards the end, so I’m hoping the swim won’t be too bad – I’m quietly confident we can do it.

“We’ve had lots of support from our family and friends – a particularly good mate is John Walsh, who has been with us several times to Dover to practice for the big event. He’s been a constant driving force, pushing us all the way.

“It will be absolutely freezing, and we’ll have to keep out of the way of boats, but we’ve got all the safety measures in place and it’s all for a good cause, which is what matters.”

So far the duo has raised more than £1,000, but aim to reach £2,000 for the cause.

Mr Newberry, a HGV mechanic, said: “We’d encourage people to spare whatever they can so we can smash our target.

“Everyone at some stage in their life, whether it be personally, through friends or family will be affected by cancer or a terminal illness. Donating just a small amount of money could make all the difference.”

To sponsor the pair visit: http://www.justgiving.com/channelswimandironman2010