Members of the University of Essex Rowing Club and the Parachute Regiment in training

The University of Essex Rowing Club has thrown down the gauntlet to the 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment based in Colchester.

Soldiers and students, rowing in teams, will compete against each other to row as far as possible in 24 hours without stopping.

The’Row 4 Colchester’ challenge will take place at Lion Walk Shopping Centre in Colchester town centre starting on Tuesday 11 December at 6pm and finishing on Wednesday 12 December at 6pm.

The teams will be rowing using four ergometers, two for each team. Those taking part are raising money for Combat Stress, the University of Essex Students' Union, the Parachute Regiment Charity and the Rotary Club of Colchester.

To find out more about the challenge and donate go to: www.uercvspararowing.tcnwk.com