IRON SCOUTS DESCEND ON GYM IN FUNDRAISING EFFORT

Members of the 1st Congresbury Scout Troop will be descending on the region's leading health club in order to raise funds for new equipment.

Once there the 22-strong group will embark on what it has labelled its 'Iron Scout' challenge that will see them swim, cycle and run using the facilities and equipment at the club, Cadbury House in Congresbury.

Taking place on 7 April the plan is to swim 3,900 metres, cycle 180 kilometres and run 26.2 miles similar to the disciplines undertaken by athletes who take part in one of the most gruelling challenges on the planet, the Ironman triathlon.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, the Troop is planning a host of activities and hope the challenge will help raise enough money for it to continue providing adventurous activities and personal development for its members.

Jason Eaton, manager at the club said: "We're delighted to help support the Scouts on what is going to be quite a challenge.

"The Ironman triathlon really does test the endurance and stamina of the finest and arguably fittest athletes on the planet and has become a hugely popular event since its origins in Hawaii back in the 1970s.

"I'm sure the Scouts are well prepared and members of the health club team will be on hand to provide support and advice during the event. With our 20-metre pool and the most advanced equipment available in any gym or health club in the region doing the challenge here was the natural choice and we look forward to welcoming the Troop as well as their family and friends."

Alex Johnston, Assistant Scout Leader added: "I'd firstly like to thank Jason and his team for allowing us to do this challenge at the club. It has everything we need to complete what is going to really test the fitness and resolve of those who take part.

"I've no doubt that with this current crop of Scouts we are going to achieve our goals of completing the challenge and raising plenty of funds so that we can look forward to a bright future of scouting in the Congresbury area."

To support the 1st Congresbury Scouts please visit http://mydonate.bt.com/events/ironScouts

For further information on the club please visit http://www.theclubandspabristol.co.uk or call 01934 834 343.