A SPORTS broadcaster from Malvern took to the water to raise money for St Richard's Hospice in memory of his father.

Dan Pallett, a sports presenter with BBC Midlands Today, joined hundreds of swimmers to swim 10km down the river Dart estuary last weekend.

The 43 year old, who used to work for the Worcester News, took on the challenge as a tribute to his father, Paul Pallett, who was supported by St Richard's before his death in December last year after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.

Mr Pallett, who has so far raised £1,700, said: "The early part of the swim was pretty serene as we swam down the river past unspoilt countryside but suddenly, at around 5km, everything changed. It was quite windy and the second half was more like a sea swim as we were continually battered by waves. You can't see through the water and with the waves hitting you in the face it was a bit disorientating but there were enough swimmers in the water to make sure you don't drift off course.

"Once the finishing line looms in the distance you get an extra kick of energy. My family and friends spotted me about 300m from the line and that was a fantastic moment as I could hear them cheering me on. I raced the last bit giving everything I'd got and the hugs and kisses made it all worthwhile at the finish."

Mr Pallett added that the race brought back memories of his father.

"I felt very emotional and thought of how my Dad kept trying to get into the water even when he was ill," he said.

"We'd support him until the water allowed him to float about. He just loved to swim and be in the water and he'd have loved the whole friendly feel of the Dart 10km.

"It's been a long few months of training with 6am starts but the day was epic and with the money raised it's been so worthwhile. I feel lucky to have had so much support from friends and family."

The money raised will go to St Richard's and the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

To donate visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DanPallett.