AN Olympic hero will take to the water on Windermere to mark the anniversary of one of Britain's most memorable sporting achievements and help raise thousands for charity.

It is 15 years since Sir Steve Redgrave won his fifth and final gold medal at the Sydney Olympics and he is marking the occasion by getting back in the boat to raise money for charity.

In his role as Ambassador for property and construction consultancy, Gleeds, the UK sporting favourite will be participating in a fundraising challenge to raise £130,000 for charity in five days.

On Friday, September 25, Sir Steve will join kayakers on the lake in a bid to add £10,000 for Cancer Research UK to the overall total.

Commenting on the event, he said: “I can’t quite believe 15 years have flown by since the Sydney Olympics, but what a way to celebrate!

"It’s been a while since I’ve been out in the boat, so I’m really looking forward to supporting the Gleeds team with their challenge – particularly in such magnificent surroundings!” Gleeds Director Stuart Ball, who has championed the triathlon fundraiser, said: “We’ve been training flat-out since January, practicing together during lunch breaks and after work.

"Not only is it rewarding to know that we’re helping support two very worthy causes, the challenge has also had an incredible impact on morale, it’s really brought people together.”