A Hertfordshire Probation employee hopes to join Boyzone star Ronan Keating and billionaire Sir Richard Branson swim the Irish Sea for charity.

Esther, a Probation Services Officer working at our Hertford office, is competing to be part of a ten person relay team consisting of eight celebrities and two members of the public aiming to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

20 people will be selected by ballot on July 15 to go through to a gruelling interview and training process in Brighton from which the two members of the public will be chosen to join the team on its 56 mile swim through water known for its bitter cold and mountainous waves.

Esther, who used to be a lifeguard and swimming instructor, said: "I guess it's my personal challenge. I want to see if I can do it."

To be included in the ballot Esther must have already raised £100 for the charity. Even if she is not selected for the relay team, Esther says she will swim 56 miles at her local swimming pool to raise money for the charity.

To sponsor Esther visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/EstherBouma