WHAT a fantastic weekend it has been welcoming the behemoth that is Ironman back to Bolton.

Now in it's 11th year in the town, Britain's biggest triathlon shows no sign of slowing down.

All weekend the town was packed with people and the atmosphere for them was electric.

On Friday night the first ever Night Run saw hundreds of runners take to the streets and on Saturday more than 3,000 inspirational youngsters took part in the world's biggest Ironkids event.

Then, when the big one finally arrived, a local lad (well, Blackburn!) swept to victory. Brian Fogarty (yes, cousin of World Superbike champion Carl) swam, cycled and ran the gruelling 140.6km course in a mind-blowing time of 9 hours, 27 minutes.

He was followed home by thousands of other competitors from all walks of life. It's so inspirational watching the different athletes, of all shapes and sizes, conquer such an incredible feat of endurance. The lessons they will have learned about overcoming difficulty and persevering will last with them long after the achy joints and blistered feet have healed.

And their efforts will no doubt have inspired more than a few others who watched on in awe.

Events like Ironman are fantastic for Bolton; bringing new people into our fantastic town and inspiring people to take on new, exciting challenges. Long may it continue!