Ironman 70.3: Bolton duo first to cross finish line

Jamie Scott-Farrington, from Horwich was the first of the men's category to finish, crossing the line in four hours, 11 minutes and 53 seconds while Kelly Warrington was ahead of the pack where the women were concerned, finishing in four hours, 53 minutes and 38 seconds.

First to cross the finish line was James Scott-Farrington

Their incredible achievement in the Ironman 70.3 race, a special held this year only which at 70.3 miles is half the length of a traditional Ironman run, rounded of a weekend of sport that saw people come from all over the country to test themselves in a variety of athletic challenges.

Kelly Warrington crossing the line

Nineteen-year-old Will Cooper, competing in his first Ironman 70.3 race after years of taking part in the youngsters version, said: "I took part in Ironkids since the first year it started, then I did it every year until I was too old to do it really.

"It was definitely good to race in Ironkids when I was young, even though the race is quite short its good preparation."

He added: "It's all about being healthy and having fun.

"As long as you're the right age, anyone can do it from the age of four, anyone can do it!"

Will Cooper, with his medal

Ironman race director Rachel Jackson said: "We have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that athletes have an incredible race experience.

"We value the incredible support of local institutions and suppliers, as well as participants, sponsors and volunteers who help make the event possible.”

An extremely pleased looking athlete finishes his race

Coming up next amongst the male athletes was Oliver Simon, who finished in four hours, 18 minutes and 26 seconds, followed by 2019 winner Brian Fogarty in third who crossed the line in four hours, 19 minutes and 52 seconds.

James Scott-Farrington, Oliver Simon and Brian Fogarty who finished first, second and third

Hot on Kelly Warrington's heels amongst the women were Molly Savill who finished second in five hours, one minute and 45 seconds and Jordan Matthews in third, who made it across the line in five hours, five minutes and 59 seconds.

A family looks on as there Dad competes

As well as the thrilling sports events, Bolton town centre also played host to fairground stalls, bands, and people dressed in all manner of elaborate costumes as residents and visitors from further afield flocked to enjoy the carnival atmosphere.

• Bolton: Ironman 70.3 as it happened

A band playing on the steps of Bolton town hall

Youngsters were also able to play a part in the events, with Ironkids seeing over 3,500 children get involved in the festival of sport on Saturday.

• Bolton: Ironkids 2021 come to town centre
• Bolton: Ironkids 2021 as it unfolded

For all involved the event came as a relief after the pandemic had curtailed large gatherings for such a long time, particularly in Bolton which has been harder hit than most by the crisis.

Ironman will return to Bolton next year.