A MARATHON outdoor swim by a Salisbury store director raised more than £1,000 for charity.

Martyn Hatch, from Vision Express, took on The Dart 10k swim in aid of charities including The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT), joining about 800 other swimmers on the River Dart between Totness and Dittisham.

Martyn completed the swim in three hours and 15 minutes, with the winner finishing in just over two hours.

CHECT is Vision Express’ nominated charity and the only UK charity dedicated to providing support to families affected by retinoblastoma.

Member Nigel Dawe, a childhood eye cancer sufferer who was treated at Salisbury District Hospital, was on hand to collect the cheque on behalf of the charity.

He said: “I was affected by retinoblastoma in both eyes when I was five. As an adult I was unaware I could pass the condition on to my son, who needed regular screening under anaesthetic from birth.

“Luckily genetic tests showed Ryan doesn't carry the affected gene so he no longer has to be screened.

“Better awareness needs to be raised about this condition to other parents and healthcare professionals and I am happy to help CHECT do this wherever I can.”

CHECT supports workers to help families through diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

The charity also raises awareness of retinoblastoma and funds research into this fast-growing children’s cancer.