IRONMAN is described as one of the hardest one-day endurance events in the world — but one team takes endurance to a new level.

Team True Spirit is a team of athletes of injured servicemen with a support team of rehabilitation physios, civilians and volunteers.

They won the admiration of the crowds as they completed the gruelling triathlon yesterday.

Servicemen and women who had been badly injured competed, including double amputee soldiers Simon Harmer and Joe Townsend.

Ally Richmond, aged 45, from Salisbury, was supporting her husband David, aged 45, and other members of the team.

Mr Richmond served in Afghanistan before being medically discharged after an injury to his leg.

Mrs Richmond said: “It is his first Ironman and I am so proud of him.

“He did injure his other leg in training , so he has to be a bit careful, but he will do it. We have a 41-strong team here, 13 of whom have been injured who are taking part.”

Sadie Melling, aged 26, of Leigh, is with the RAF.

After a parachuting accident which left both her legs broken nearly a year ago, she opted to do just the swim, but was not limited by the cut-off time that other athletes must adhere to.

She was supported by colleague Belinda Robertson, aged 29.

Miss Melling emerged from the water to a huge round of applause and cheers, before being greeted by her friends and family.

Miss Melling said: “It is a relief to have done it, and it feels amazing.”

Team True Spirit aims to raise awareness of injured army personnel and allow the servicemen and women the chance to do amazing things to prove they can bounce back.

Miss Robertson, from Australia, said: “Sadie did brilliantly, I knew she would do it and the support she received was incredible.”