Charity swimmer Walliams to the rescue in soggy dog story

The 40-year-old Little Britain star – who previously swam the Channel – yesterday passed the 100-mile mark on his 140-mile, eight-day swim, in which he has braved chilly temperatures and a dose of “Thames tummy” to raise funds for charity.

The dog drama came as the TV star swam towards Cookham Lock in Berkshire, where Vinny, a one-year-old labrador, was struggling to get out of the water due to a bad hip. Walliams said: “I heard a splash and looked over to be met with the face of a sweet labrador. I thought he was fine, but he started to really struggle when he was getting out so I swam over and helped his owner get him out.”

Vinny’s owner Steve Outten, 23, from High Wycombe, said: “Vinny has hip dysplasia and was really struggling to get out just as David was swimming past. He stopped, swam over and helped me get him out, which, when you think what he’s going through with the swim, is totally amazing. What a man.”

Despite concerns that the swim could be too much for Walliams, he said yesterday was a “great day”. His wife Lara Stone was in the support boat, which he said was “such a big boost”.

He added: “My tummy has settled a bit and I had fish and chips and some pizza last night so I feel better.

“We have broken through the 100-mile barrier which is great, but once I reach Teddington Lock the Thames becomes tidal and there’s a whole new set of challenges. The currents and undertows are very dangerous so I’ll need to be strong.”

As well as suffering with the stomach bug, Walliams has had physiotherapy at every rest stop during the BT Sport Relief Challenge. He has a rash on his neck where his wetsuit has rubbed, posing a risk of infection.

So far he has raised more than £500,000 and BT is giving £40,000 a day to the fund. Supporters can sponsor the performer at www.sportrelief.com/walliams.

Along the way, he has been cheered on by fans and celebrities. Comic Miranda Hart even made him a bowl of porridge for breakfast yesterday.