Olympic rowing champions Sir Steve Redgrave and Helen Glover are set to take on the race of a lifetime in aid of Cancer Research UK.

For the first time ever, two teams of celebrities will take on the River Thames as they join the prestigious Cancer Research UK Boat Races in April.

Marlow legend, Sir Steve Redgrave, who won gold medals at five consecutive Olympic Games, will be taking to the water as coach for one of the celebrity teams, which features Cookham resident and two-time Olympic rowing champion, Helen Glover.

They are set to be joined by the likes of musician, Harry Judd and model Jodie Kidd.

On the other team, coached by double Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell, Beaconsfield resident Vernon Kay will be joined by comedian Zoe Lyons, newsreader Sophie Raworth and former competitive swimmer Rebecca Adlington.

Following the first day of training, Helen Glover said: “I’ve loved today. This is the sport I adore and train really hard for, so to see so many people experiencing it for the first time has been incredible.

“I think Race Day is going to be hilarious, with so many big characters and competitive celebrities in each boat who knows what will happen.

“While I’m really hoping my team will win, it’s been a great opportunity to be a part of the whole experience, and an honour to “Pull Together” for Cancer Research UK.”

The #PullTogether campaign has been created this year to raise awareness and funds for the charity with the Celebrity Boat Race taking centre stage.

The race, which is supported by the BBC, will be broadcast as part of BBC One’s coverage of The Boat Races on Sunday, April 2.

To support Cancer Research UK, text Pull3 to 70200 to donate £3 towards their life-saving research.

Those inspired by the Celebrity Boat Race can take on their own challenge with Cancer Research UK’s fitness fundraising challenge, The Great Row.

Visit cruk.org/TheGreatRow for more information and to request a fundraising pack.