AN ex-SAS soldier is aiming to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic single-handed after being inspired by a Worcestershire boy who died before his first birthday.

David Williams, aged 44, has unveiled his vessel and dedicated the epic voyage to Fraser Lewis, who died from brain damage and epilepsy aged five-and-a-half months.

He hopes to be the 18th person to complete the trans-Atlantic crossing - and if he does he hopes to raise more than £10,000 for the Acorns Children's Hospice, which plans to build a £4m 10-bed hospice in Worcester for life-limited children and their families.

Mr Williams decided to undertake the challenge after hearing Fraser's mum, Sadie, make an impassioned speech about Fraser at Hereford Town Hall in February.

"This all came about when Sadie gave an inspirational speech about Fraser," said Mr Williams, who grew up in Worcester and attended The King's School.

"Although I've never rowed a boat in my life, I hope my military background and experience will be useful in a challenge of this magnitude.

"I never met Fraser but his story puts my life into perspective. It was obvious that the boat should be called Fraser's Boat."

Mrs Lewis said she was "very moved" when David approached her about his tribute to her son, who died in 1999.

"The long drive to Selly Oak when Fraser was very ill was the worst hour of my life," said Mrs Lewis, who lives in Worcestershire.

"A hospice in Worcester would have made all the difference.

"We all wish David good luck and look forward to watching his progress."

The 120-foot long boat displays a photograph of Fraser with his mum to provide inspiration to David.

The gruelling journey will allow David only a half-hour break every three-and-a-half hours, with around four hours sleep at night.

The new sports science department at University College Worcester will design David's training for the three month-long race from Tenerife to Barbados, due to start in January 2004.

People will be able to follow David's journey via a web cam linked to BBC Hereford and Worcester's website.

Anyone who wants to donate money, sponsor the boat or wants put it on show at an event or their workplace should email David at williams856 @hotmail.com or contact Acorns on 01905 767676.