A CHARITY worker is turning to paddle power to raise cash for needy projects in Africa.

Sarah Hodgson aims to paddle the length of three lakes in a sea kayak, in under 12 hours.

She and seven fellow adventurers are taking on Coniston, Ullswater and Windermere, a total of 35km.

"I took part in my first training session this week and my arms are aching!" said Sarah, 27.

"It was the first time I had been in a kayak since I was about ten years old.

"I'm planning to join a club to step-up the training now.

"It will be a difficult challenge for an inexperienced kayaker like me but I'm looking forward to it."

Sarah is raising money for Goodwill and Growth for Africa UK (GAGA UK), which she works for in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The charity helps children and communities affected by HIV-AIDS, poverty and violence in Africa.

Sarah has now moved to Stratford, but her mum and stepdad – Bev and Phil Hudson – live at Greenside Lane, Cullingworth.

She aims to raise £350 through the challenge, in July, and has already been pledged over £100.

Visit virginmoneygiving.com/team/3ladiesdo3lakes to donate.