STAFF at a Rossendale pool will be testing their 'metal' this week with an Ironman event designed to raise cash for Manchester Children's Hospital.

Eleven members of staff will team up with local gym members to take part in a gruelling 48 hour marathon -- without even leaving the building.

Each will be contributing in shifts to run a 52 mile double marathon, swim 21 miles - the distance across the English Channel - and cycle 2,119 miles, the distance of the Tour De France, all within the confines of Ramsbottom's leisure complex at Porritt Way.

The event is due to start on Thursday and ends on Saturday.

It is supporting the Five Stars Appeal which raises money for the children's cancer unit at the hospital.

The staff taking part are duty officers Phil McLean, Steve Pickering and Paul Wilcock; head gym instructor Lall Moosaye; gym instructors Lee Buggie, Natalie Fewings and Simon Wesolowski; receptionist Sharon Goddard; and lifeguards Rick Fantauzzo and Kate Brooks.

Paul Wilcock said: "Obviously we all work at the centre and think we are pretty fit, but the event really will sort out the pretenders from the champions. And it'll be a great way of showing off the facilities we have up at the centre."

Councillor Siobhan Costello, Bury Council's executive member for community services, said: "This is an excellent way to raise money for charity and to show off the council's investment in the pool and gym complex. I wish everyone taking part good luck."

Ramsbottom Pool was re-opened in July of last year following a £350,000 council re-fit including the installation of a £150,000 new, state-of-the-art gym.

Anyone wanting to support the team can send cheques, made payable to the 'Five Stars Appeal' to Ramsbottom Pool and Fitness Centre, Porritt Way, Ramsbottom.