ROWING rivals are about to compete head-to-head for 24 hours, without leaving a students' pub.

Boat club members from neighbouring colleges at Durham University are taking part in the day-long sponsored static rowing challenge.

More than 40 members of the boat clubs at Hatfield College and University College, based at Durham Castle, will take it in turns on two static machines, in the downstairs lounge of The Varsity pub, in the city.

Both crews are sponsored and the proceeds will be split between BBC's Children in Need appeal and funds for the two clubs.

The challenge was laid by Hatfield College club captain Tim Venables to his University College counterpart, Gareth Bellamy, with a traditional crossed oars ceremony at the Varsity.

The challenge begins at 9pm tomorrow, with the contest continuing through the night, and ending at 9pm on Wednesday.