A GREAT Sankey ironman has completed one of the most gruelling challenges of strength and stamina and raised £3,000 for the Warrington Wolves Foundation in the process.

John Ruane, who works at Omega Access North, Woolston, completed the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and full marathon run which make up the Ironman triathlon in Bolton on Sunday in 15 hours and 49 minutes.

The 45-year-old lost six and a half pounds on the challenge day alone which was nicely timed before his wedding to Tracey Rutter later this month.

The Warrington season ticket holder said: “It was tough physically but more so mentally when you start thinking ‘can I finish it?’ and asking yourself ‘why am I doing this?’ “I had cycled to Wembley and then to Cardiff before for the foundation and then someone suggested I tried an Ironman.

“I started training last year but up until December I could only swim two lengths.

“I had lessons but the swimming was the hardest part.”

Visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JohnRuane1 to donate.