The scenery was stunning - but for Peter Thomas there was no chance to enjoy it with a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile marathon run to do.

The Prendergast man took part in the Ironman Switzerland race in Zurich last month, and the trop proved well worthwhile as he defied searing heat to clock an impressive time of 11 hours 22 minutes.

"I wanted to be under 12 hours so was delighted with the time - even if I was absolutely knackered afterwards," he told Telegraph Sport.

And like so many in Pembrokeshire, it was Ironman Wales which first inspired him.

"I got on the Tenby bandwagon last year and really enjoyed it.

"I wanted to try one abroad and looked at the calendar and liked the look of the Switzerland race.

"The scenery was brilliant but the conditions were a lot hotter than Tenby. It was the swim that was hardest as that was done in a lake - I'd never swam in a lake before."

The former STP pupil, who lives in Prendergast, was supported in Zurich by a host of family and friends and thanked them for all their support, and vowed he's not finished with Ironman races yet.

"I enjoy them and they keep me off the beer so I'll be doing another one."