RUGBY legend Bill Beaumont is to tackle one of Britain's toughest physical challenges -- from the comfort of his car seat!

The former Grand Slam-winning England captain will be revving the engine as a driver in a team of four taking part in the Wooden Spoon Society's Ford Great Lakeland Challenge on May 17 to raise funds for disabled and disadvantaged youngsters.

Lytham-based Bill will join around 30 other teams of competitors who are ready to pit their wits against the longest lake, steepest pass and highest mountain in the Lake District.

Bill's three team mates and the rest of the competitors will attempt to row the length of Lake Windermere, cycle 26 miles over some of England's steepest terrains and finally run eight miles up and down Sca Fell Pike.

Launching this year's event, Bill --who is the president of the Wooden Spoon Society's Lancashire Regional Committee -- said: "Facing up to the All Blacks in my heyday was daunting, but what these teams are about to embark upon will test their minds and bodies to the absolute limit.

"It's great that they are devoting so much time and energy in supporting the Wooden Spoon Society and I wish them all well in the gruelling challenge ahead."

The inspirational captain, who led England to the Grand Slam inlay and earned seven Lions caps against South Africa and New Zealand's All Blacks, will drive the vehicle carrying his team's cycles, food and wet weather gear.

His team includes keen cyclist and rugby player John Cole of St Annes, Ian Garrod, a fireman and experienced triathlete from Blackpool and Ian Butler, a keen rugby player from Blackpool, who have been training hard to be at their peak for the test of endurance.

They hope to raise more than £3,000 for British rugby union's charity, the Wooden Spoon Society. The event, which is in its sixth year, has raised hundreds and thousands of pounds for disabled and disadvantaged children.