Athlete Ian Walton, who works as a Leisure Team Leader at Matfen Hall, will take part in the World Triathlon Championships in Almere, Holland this weekend.

The 40-year-old joins the Great Britain Seniors team and will compete in a 120-strong field in the veterans section as the only participant from Northumberland, Tyne and Wear.

The gruelling event includes a 4km swim, 120km cycle ride and ends with a 30km run, but Mr Walton is fully prepared for the task after training for up to 15 hours a week as a member of the Ryton Triathlon Club.

"I have trained hard and know that it is a phenomenal achievement just to secure a place in the World Championships," he said.

"Although nervous and excited, my aim is to try to be within the top 25 percent of competitors."

Mr Walton, of Blackhill near Consett, is also hoping to compete in the World Duathlon Championships in Rimini, Italy, later this year, but as a non-professional he must fund the cost of his competition trips himself.

However, he has received much support from Matfen Hall and its guests to set him on his way.

"I would like to thank Matfen Hall and members of the Leisure Club for all of their generosity and encouragement. Without their many fundraising activities, it would have been extremely difficult for me to have made the commitment to travel to both championships," he said.

Matfen staff were happy to support their colleague.

Leisure Manager Peter Smith said: "It is fantastic to be chosen to represent your country so here at Matfen Hall we are very proud of Ian.

"It is fantastic to have a member of our team who is also a member of Team GB.

"We wish him all the very best of luck for this coming year in his Duathlon and Triathlon activities."