TWO Cumbrian men will attempt to cross the Atlantic in a custom-made pedal boat in a world record breaking attempt.

Kieran Sweeney, 32, and Ashley Parry, 21, will be boarding “Oar-Killa” to race from Gran Canaria to Barbados on February 3.

The fastest recorded crossing in a human powered craft currently stands at 30 days.

They plan to set a new record in a sophisticated pedal boat that has been built by Cardiff-based company SweeneyPro, which is now run by Kieran. It has been created to prove the efficiency of man-powered boats.

The challenge was set many years ago in memory of a friend’s daughter and their fundraising efforts are going to be donated to the Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF) at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Kieran is passionate about the charity and has pledged to continue fundraising for CHUF in all future endeavours.

Commenting on the passionate efforts and the unique challenge, Chris Gray, Chief Executive at the Children’s Heart Unit Fund: “We’re delighted that Kieran has chosen our charity for his excellent challenge.

"The idea of a human powered pedal boat racing across the Atlantic Ocean is an endearing and inspirational challenge. We wish Kieran and Ashley all our luck as well as a safe journey!”

All fundraising can be directed to Virginmoneygiving/Sweeneypro and anyone seeking to learn more can visit: www.sweeneypro.com