Which is faster, land or sea? Jovial rivals Mike Vadden and Malcolm Spooner have battled over this question for seven years - and raised thousands for charity into the bargain.
Lift - walker Malcolm Spooner gets a piggyback from sailor pal Mike Vadden. Picture: ELISE GOW D9H7K3
Their caper is a sponsored walking and sailing race from Shoebury boom to Two Tree Island, Leigh.
The Thundersley chums are just gearing up for this year's challenge on Sunday, September 8 in aid of the Young Carers project for Castle Point Crossroads.
Some of the youngsters will be cheering the duo, and joining former cleaning firm boss, Malcolm, in his 70s, of Langford Crescent, Thundersley, as he sets off on the walking route.
Meanwhile retired vet Mike, 66, of Selbourne Road, Thundersley, will do the journey by boat.
The gauntlet was first thrown down at a party at Mike's house.
He said: "We were discussing the various merits of walking or sailing, and Malcolm said he could walk faster than I could sail. There was a spare glove lying round, so he slapped me round the face with it and we challenged each other to walk and sail against each other.
"We decided to take advantage of it and see if we could raise some money for charity."
Mike will be sailing his six-berth yacht for the venture which starts at 11.30am from Shoebury boom. To sponsor the pair contact Castle Point Crossroads on 01268 681720.
Published Wednesday August 28, 2002
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