AN iron-willed personal trainer is set to tackle the ultimate endurance challenge to raise money for charity.

Perry Agass, 31, of the Rundels, Benfleet, is set to take part in the UK Ironman triathlon, which includes an energy sapping 2.4-mile swim, followed by a 112-mile bike ride and rounded off with a marathon.

The self-confessed fitness fanatic, who aims to raise £1,000 for a variety of causes, hopes to complete the course in just 14 hours, three hours short of the required completion time.

He said: “Although I have been a triathlete now for four years this is, without question, the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.

“I am training harder than I have ever done before, six days a week, twice a day – but I feel great.

“It’s a huge task that has to be completed in under 17 hours, which I feel more than confident I can do.”

The aptly named Ironman takes place on August 2 in Bolton, Lancashire, when 1,500 superfit men and women will be testing their stamina to the limit as well as trying to qualify for the world championships in Kona, Hawaii, in October.

As part of his preparation, Perry has been training at Canvey’s Waterside Farm athletics track alongside Olympic athlete Dean Macey.

Perry said: “I have gained some of my best knowledge over the last ten years training alongside Dean. He has given me a great insight into what level of fitness is required and the positive approach I need to be a top athlete.”

Perry plans to donate the majority of the £1,000 he hopes to raise to Havens Hospices.

He said: “I’m absolutely gobsmacked at the great work they do. Little Havens is literally five minutes away from where I live in Thundersley. It is so amazing and the care is second-to-none.”

To sponsor Perry, visit www.justgiving.com/perryagass