AN animal lover from Moore is preparing for her biggest challenge to date – all in the name of charity.

Amy Peters, aged 33, will bid to swim across the English Channel as part of a six-strong relay team when she sets of on the journey next week to raise money for Pets As Therapy.

The charity's volunteers make therapeutic visits to hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and special schools with dogs and cats.

Amy is registering her five-year-old Australian labradoodle, Muttley, as a therapy dog and hopes to become a volunteer but hopes her feat will 'give something back'.

"It will take us about 17 or 18 hours to complete the 22 miles but it just depends on the speed we go at and the weather," she said.

"But I am excited – training is going well and we are all getting used to it all, especially the cold water."

As part of her regime Amy has been training in open water at Salford Quays and the Albert Dock but she has been joined by some unwelcome company.

"I have to say my biggest fear is jellyfish – I am petrified of them but there have been some about," she added.

She also admits David Walliams' charity swimming efforts will help motivate her past the 22-mile mark.

Amy, who used to work in shipping and logistics, has just launched a new pet caring and dog walking business, Creature Comforts Cheshire, with her friend, 31-year-old Gemma Knight.

Their company and clients are supporting the swimmers called 'Dover Souls' on their journey.

For further information visit justgiving.com/amypeters1.