A WELLAND man is to take on a particularly tough challenge to raise money for Malvern Special Families.

Tom Brazington, aged 36, will be doing a double iron man triathlon, which will mean a 4.8 mile swim, followed by a 224-mile bike ride and two back-to-back marathons, totalling 52 miles.

And as if that was not enough, Mr Brazington intends to complete the entire challenge in 36 hours.

He said: “For the past three years I have been competing in ironman triathlons.

“As I am completely mad, I’ve decided to enter the Brutal Extreme Double Ironman in Snowdonia.

“This is the world’s toughest triathlon, as voted for by 220 Triathlon magazine, but it is renowned for its low-key and friendly vibe.

“Why would I do this, you might ask? Why not? Life is short and pushing yourself to the limit is very empowering, but mainly it offers a way to do something special for others that are less fortunate than ourselves.

“I have decided to do this for Malvern Special Families, a wonderful charity that has helped friends of mine.”

The double ironman is on Saturday, September 15, at Llanberis in Snowdonia.

The event with the swim starts in Lake Padarn, the bike course goes through stunning mountain scenery and over some challenging hills, and the run takes participants on an undulating trail round the lake and up and down Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales.

Malvern Special Families charity provides safe and fun social opportunities for children and young people with disabilities aged between five and 19 in out-of-school hours in Malvern and in Worcester.

Cassie Zoro, community fundraiser at Malvern Special Families, said: “Our small charity relies on the enthusiasm of fabulous community fundraisers like Tom, and the generosity of their sponsors.”

The charity provides provides social opportunities for children and young people in a safe and stimulating environment whist also giving their families a short break from their caring duties.

It offers a place where children and young people with disabilities can be themselves, individual assessment of each child or young person’s needs, care from a warm and friendly team of experienced play workers and a high ratio of staff to young people for individual support.

Mr Brazington’s fundraising page can be found by visiting virginmoneygiving.com.