A TOP-flight former SAS man has been inspired by a baby boy he never met to row across the Atlantic in his memory, writes ANITA HOWELLS.

David Williams from Hereford was deeply moved when he heard the tragic tale of Fraser Lewis. At just five-and-a-half months old the little boy died of brain damage and severe epilepsy at Acorns Children's Hospice, Selly Oak.

David, aged 44, a body guard and former soldier from the first Gulf War, says Fraser's little life put his own into perspective.

"The motivating factor is the Acorns Hospice and a little lad called Fraser whom I never met. This row is for him," said David.

The father of two children, Natalie 12, and Hayley, eight, who had never rowed a boat in his life, will attempt a solo 3,000-mile Atlantic crossing next January.

To date only 18 rowers have finished the international race route from La Gomera, Tenerife to Port St Charles, Barbados. His drive comes from Fraser's family; mum, Sadie, twin Hayden and big sister, Corah.

Sadie said: "When your child dies one of the most difficult things is that you stop hearing people say their name. So when David approached me and asked if he could name his boat after Fraser I was very moved."

The new £4 million Acorn's hospice will be built in Worcester, Fraser's hometown, for other life-limited children.

"Building the new hospice will have a massive impact on families with life-limited children in the three counties. The long drive to Selly Oak when Fraser was very ill was the worst hour of my life.

"A local hospice is so urgently needed to help all the other 'Frasers' who need the kind of support Acorns offers," added Sadie.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Fraser's boat should contact Acorns on 01905 767676.