ABERYSTWYTH University’s acting vice-chancellor has raised almost £7,000 for student hardship after finishing one of the toughest of sporting challenges.

Prof John Grattan completed the Ironman Wales triathlon in Tenby in Pembrokeshire in just under 17 hours.

During that time, the 56-year-old academic had to swim 2.4 miles in the sea, cycle 112 miles and run a full 26.2-mile marathon.

He crossed the finish line late on Sunday, cheered on by a crowd of supporters from Aberystwyth University.

Wearing his yellow Aberystwyth University shirt, Prof Grattan was among 2,000 athletes to sign up for this year’s Ironman Wales contest.

He began training for the triathlon in earnest nine months ago, with support from staff at Aberystwyth University’s Sports Centre and sport science department.

Speaking after the event, Prof Grattan said: “This was without a doubt the toughest physical challenge I have faced so far and I’m delighted that I managed to complete the course within the qualifying time.

“I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me and supported me in my bid to conquer the Ironman Wales challenge.

“I’m very proud that all the money raised will go to the Aber Fund and will be used specifically to help student hardship and student welfare projects.”

Donations to the fund can still be made online through Prof Grattan’s Ironman page at https://ironmanvc.everydayhero.com/uk/johngrattan.