A GROUP of friends is taking to the water in aid of a "cause close to everybody's hearts".

Businessman Matt Law, of Stourport, and about 20 friends and colleagues are entering a "dragon boat race" in Dudley next month for the Kemp Hospice appeal.

Mr Law, who also organised a winning entry in last year's race for the charity, said sponsorship is set to raise up to £1,000 for the appeal.

The hospice needs funds to help convert the former Cedars Hotel in Kidderminster into a new and enlarged day care centre - due to open later this year - for people suffering from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Further facilities such as an in-patient unit will follow.

"My friend's mum, Elaine Carter, had cancer and unfortunately she died at the end of last year so it's a cause that's close to everybody's hearts," said Mr Law.

"She went to Kemp - apparently she found it invaluable. She really, really enjoyed her time there."

Mrs Carter's daughter Sam will again join in the race.

Mr Law, 23, of Lodge Road, Stourport, also took part in last month's 25-mile bike ride in Wales which was organised by Mrs Carter's husband David to raise money for Kemp.

Last year Mr Law's dragon boat team beat 29 competitors to come top in the day-long event, which involves paddling boats decorated with a dragon in 200-metre races.

"We were racing against people like the RAF and the winners of the previous year," said Mr Law, who runs the Driver Hire franchise in Dudley.

"We didn't train for it - we just drank and smoked!"

Half the money raised by each boat goes to a hospice nominated by event organisers Wolverhampton Rotary Club while the rest goes to a charity of each entry's choice.

Anyone wishing to support Mr Law can contact him on 0121 520 2220.