Swimming trunks setback in Children in Need challenge

Dan Freeman forgot his swimming trunks on a charity swim that requires swimming trunks

Day two of BBC Radio Oxford's swimming challenge for Children in Need got off to an inauspicious start after a newsreader forgot his trunks.

Dan Freeman had to make a last-minute drive to Abingdon to grab his cossie as his teammates made their preparations at Ferry Leisure Centre in Oxford.

Groups from BBC radio stations across the UK are taking part in The Thousand Mile Challenge with each attempting to cover 24 miles (38.6km).

The rest of the local team is made up of presenter Sophie Law, journalists Sophie Rumsby and Jordan Brooks, and apprentice Jem Westgate.

Sophie Law (left) and Dan Freeman both work on BBC Radio Oxford's Breakfast show

The team members, who began the challenge on Monday, will each need to complete 63 lengths every day this week to complete their task.

Mr Freeman said he had been an "absolute wally" for forgetting his trunks.

"I think it’s the pitfalls of a 4:30 start in the morning," the breakfast show broadcaster said.

"Unfortunately I completely walked past the bag with my shorts and towel in.

"My wife messaged me, which caused no end of panic, but she took it to work in Abingdon and I’m now here and ready to go."

'Sombre cloud'

Ms Law admitted that on day two spirits were "not quite so high".

"It’s definitely aching more than yesterday… it’s not as fun as it was."

Mr Brooks added: "Day one, there was lots of excitement about the challenge, we didn’t know what to expect.

"But on day two, there is a sombre cloud above the pool.

"Everyone seems to have a steely determination to just crack on and get the lengths done, as we know what is needed."

The team members will each need to complete 63 lengths every day

But Mr Westgate's spirits were still high despite the challenge ahead.

"After going out and having a great time last night, I'm feeling physically worn out, but mentally still very happy," he said.

"I've noticed a less than ideal mood within the team. I get the feeling that many want to get in and out as fast as possible, but I'm thankfully still enjoying my time in the water.

"Bring on day three."

Ms Law and Mr Freeman received advice from gold medal-winning Olympic swimmer Kieran Bird ahead of the challenge.

To find out more, head to bbc.co.uk/swim.