Two sports journalists from the Evening Express in Aberdeen will be aiming to row for glory next month when they take part in a media challenge.

Sports editor Charlie Allan, (46), and Dons writer Andrew Moir, (26), have agreed to take part in a coxless pairs challenge match against local radio station Northsound 2's John McRuvie and Andy Dewar on the city's River Dee next month.

The teams will race over 200 metres, from beneath the Wellington Suspension Bridge to the Aberdeen Boat Club, on Saturday, March 12.

Charlie, who prefers writing about sport to playing it, and "keeps fit" by lifting pints down the pub, is hoping that his younger side-kick can help them win through.

Charlie said: "Andrew will probably end up with arms like Popeye after helping to row me down the Dee.

"I don't normally walk 200 metres, so the idea of rowing it does seem a bit daunting.

"I've cut down to three meals a day in preparation."

None of the quartet have rowed before, so before the race they will receive coaching from two official boat race skippers.

The Evening Express will be representing Aberdeen University, while their opponents will fly the flag for the Robert Gordon University.

The event is part of the build-up to the 10th Aberdeen Asset Management Universities Boat Race, the longest running Universities' Boat Race North of the border.