BBC presenters make a splash for Children in Need

Training has begun for the swimming challenge which takes place in November

BBC teams across the UK are set to make a splash in this year's challenge to raise money for Children In Need.

Local radio stations in the South East are among those taking part and will attempt a combined 48-mile swim at various swimming pools from 4-8 November.

The Thousand Mile Challenge is being supported by former Team GB swimmers and Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Mark Foster.

BBC radio stations across the UK will collectively swim 1,000 miles.

Ahead of the attempt, BBC Radio Sussex and Surrey presenter Sarah Gorrell said: “The team here have already been comparing notes and I have risen through the ranks from the slow lane to the medium speed lane.

“It’s great to be part of such a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to the final lengths in November. We won’t let the cold put us off.”

BBC Radio Sussex's Will Flockton is taking part in the challenge

Meanwhile, BBC Radio Sussex producer Will Flockton, who is also taking part, said it would be his first time swimming properly since school.

"This is a great excuse to get back into the water and I’m looking forward to the challenge," he said.

Anna Cookson, BBC Radio Kent's breakfast presenter, said: “I love swimming but I’m by no means a pro and this will definitely be a stretch but it’s for a good cause.”

Her producer, Annabel Dry, said she was more of a runner than a swimmer.

"It uses completely different muscles," she added. "I'm going to need a lot of training and luck on my side.”

Liz Saul, who is an acting news editor and bulletins reader at BBC Kent, Surrey and Sussex, said: "Luckily my stamina is quite good.

"I'm looking forward to it... and a long soak in a hot bath afterwards!"