IT was a test of strength, endurance and sheer willpower at Wimbleball Lake last weekend as children and adults took part in the ninth annual Ironman 70.3 UK challenge.

On Saturday, more than 200 children aged three to 14 battled it out, running a variety of distances to be crowned champion.

This was followed by the Ironman challenge on Sunday which saw more than 1,300 registered athletes from over 40 nations take to the water before a gruelling cycle challenge.

Defending champion Eimear Mullan, from Ireland, and maiden Ironman champion Will Clarke were first to cross the finish line.

Clarke said: “It’s a great feeling to have won. It has been a couple of years coming and I’m stoked to have won, especially on Father’s Day with my son Freddie watching.”

Eimear said: “This is my favourite race. It was totally different this year in terms of the weather and competition. “I pushed hard and really enjoyed it.”

Kevin Stewart, managing director of Ironman UK and Ireland, said: “It was fantastic to see so many athletes and spectators enjoying the spectacular Exmoor conditions.

“A big thank you must also go to our partners and all the volunteers who make such a massive contribution to the success of the event.”