A BURNLEY swimmer is hoping to join an elite group who have conquered the English Channel.

Gareth Gibson, 26, is planning to swim the 22 miles from Dover to France next month to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK.

The swim is regarded as one of the most challenging in the world with a combination of cold and strong currents meaning that only 10 per cent of people who attempt the feat actually make.

Gareth, who used to live in Lakeland Way, has put in £2,000 of his own money to cover his training, accommodation and fees.

He is hoping to raise £5,000 for the bowel cancer charity in memory of his grandmother, who died from the disease.

Gareth, a former Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Blackburn, student, who now lives and works in Man-chester, will be swimming the shortest distance between the two countries leaving Dover for Cap Gris Nez.

He is expecting to take between 15 and 18 hours depending on weather conditions and the tide.

Gareth has been travelling to Dover every weekend to train with qualified instructors to improve his stamina.

He said:" I've been a keen swimmer since I was young and was house captain of swimming at school but I've never tried anything on this scale before.

"I have dreamed of swimming the channel, ever since I was a kid.

"It always seemed a great adventure, and now I have the opportunity to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK too.

"I'm looking forward to the swim and have not been that concerned about training but I am a bit worried about the recent reports of Great White sharks in the sea!"

"September is usually the best time to swim the channel as the water has been warmed up during the summer, but I'm not sure that will be the case this year with the dreadful summer we have had."

Gareth will stay in Dover for a week from September 17, waiting for weather conditions that will make the attempt easier.

He added: "I'm looking forward to it and am in excellent physical shape to take on the challenge."

Anyone wanting to donate should visit www.justgiving.com/gareths channelswim.