THE big swim from Teignmouth should bring in more than £10,000 for Rowcroft Hospice.

A total of 124 took part in the one-mile sea swim from the main beach on Sunday, and 68 went on to complete the aquathlon by running a two-mile course around the seafront.

They have all pledged to raise the money, including gift aid, for the Torquay-based hospice.

'The sun was shining and there was a great atmosphere from the public,' said Rachel Bell, from Rowcroft.

'Those who took part did a fantastic job and should be very proud of themselves – sea swimming is not an easy challenge.

'We would like to thank the sponsors, South West Water, the lifesavers and kayakers, the lifeboat and Sea Sport South West, which provided safety cover.'

Hundreds lined the promenade and pier.

Palm FM provided a warm-up and entertainment on the Den, and solicitors' firm Scott Richards laid on a cake stall, raising £250.

The money will help fund the hospice and its work across south Devon.

The fastest time in the swim was by Andrew Nokes (23mins 44.1secs), followed by Daphne Watson (24.27.2) and Iain Roberts (25.24.7).

The winner of the aquathlon was Alex Lewis (40mins 3.8 secs), with Tom Korfe (40.14.5) second, and Clark Schofield (40.38.7) third.