Rugby Advertiser reporter Stuart Turner has raised more than £600 for charity by completing a 5k swimathon.

Stuart, (27), took the plunge in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care after his mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.

She underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy and is now recovering.

Stuart told HoldtheFrontPage: "I wanted to show my support as my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer of 2005.

"I have always been a bit of a swimmer but have never done anything for charity before and I thought it was about time I did."

Stuart took part in the swimathon at Aylestone Leisure Centre in Leicester, completing 200 lengths of the pool without a break.

He said: "I'm really glad to have done it.

"I set up a training programme but that went to pot and I just turned up on the day and went for it.

"I have never swam anything like 200 lengths before and was worried I would have to stop.

"I'm glad I could do my bit for Marie Curie."