A HAVERFORDWEST man will be tackling the mighty Ironman Wales challenge to raise funds for conservation work on Skomer and Skokholm islands.

Dave Astins, a volunteer, supporter and friend of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, has taken on the mammoth commitment of participating in the extreme event in September, said to be one of the most challenging Ironman courses.

Dave, who has been taking part in triathlons for more than 20 years, has previously braved choppy waters for a 2.5mile swim from Marloes Sands to Skokholm to raise cash for the trust.

This autumn, he hopes to raise a further £2,260 - £10 for every kilometre he covers.

The money will help support the vital conservation work that is currently being done on both Skomer and Skokholm.

Dave said: "I decided to take on Ironman Wales this year because my wife was really keen to do it, and if I didn't, I would hardly ever see her.

"Once the entry went in, I thought it would be a great idea to raise money for the Wildlife Trust.”

Rebecca Vincent, of the Trust, said: “We are delighted that Dave is once again raising vital funds for us, and we can’t thank him enough for his support towards our work.

"The funds raised from Dave’s Ironman Wales Challenge will help our beautiful Pembrokeshire islands continue to be a haven for British wildlife.

"Without support from people like Dave we wouldn’t be able to continually protect local wildlife as we do today.”

To support Dave, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ironman4Wildlife.