POOLE kite surfing ace Andy Ward has completed the last long-haul training session ahead of his gruelling world-record cross-channel surf attempt.

The Parkstone man is set to surf 70 nautical miles, from the Channel Islands to Poole, in September.

No kite surfer has ever completed the tough Alderney to Poole crossing.

Weather permitting, he’ll spend eight hours completing the challenge, across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The 33-year-old Poole Hospital clinical theatre co-ordinator is hoping to raise £15,000 for a charity dedicated to helping members, former members and families of men serving in the elite Royal Marines Special Boat Service.

At one point a team of Royal Marines were set to man a support boat, but due to commitments around the globe they had to stand down.

Visit kitechannel.co.uk to find out more, including how to sponsor Andy and all the local companies involved.