TWO Thanet men set off today to cross the English Channel in a kayak.

Mike Humber and Travis Spencer left from St Margaret's Bay, near Dover, just after 10am for what they expected to be a six-hour crossing. Family and friends were on the shore to see them off.

In addition to this being a personal challenge, the duo are also raising money for Cancer Research UK and the Arthritis Research Campaign.

"We have a support boat with us all the way who will make sure we are going in the right direction and will hopefully keep the ferries and tankers out of our way," said Mike with a smile.

"We have been kayaking and surfing for many years but have been training a lot this winter to increase the distance over which we are able to maintain a reasonable pace.

"The main problem has been the cold which we combated by carrying hot water bottles in insulated bags on board. We also carried flasks of tea or hot orange squash, although we lost several drinks over the side on one day in March during a bit of rough weather."