OLYMPIC medal-winning swimmer Steve Parry will take part in a gruelling 56-mile relay across the Irish Sea to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Parry, from Allerton, who won a bronze in the butterfly event at the 2004 Athens Games, will join a team of 10 captained by Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson and singer Ronan Keating.

Last night, he said was inspired to get involved with “The Swim” following his own battle with testicular cancer.

The challenge will take place between Holyhead and Dublin from August 31 to September 6 and could take place at any time during the day or night.

The temperature of the water will be around only 13°C – but Parry said he was looking forward to the experience.

He said: “To be honest, I am a bit of a wuss when it comes to the cold!

“It will be very eerie swimming in the Irish Sea alone, especially in the dead of night, even if there is a boat around.

“There are jellyfish the size of dustbin lids in that part of the sea, but I have had experience swimming in the open water before. I often swim at Albert Dock.”

Each member of the team will swim for one hour during The Swim.