Renowned naturalist and wildlife TV presenter Iolo Williams has lent his support to this year’s Builth Wells Aquathlon, encouraging participants to take part in the community event raising funds for The Bracken Trust.

Taking place on Sunday, August 10, the aquathlon offers two race options: a 400m swim (16 lengths) followed by a 5km run, or a shorter 200m swim (8 lengths) with a 3km run. The event is open to competitors aged 15 and over for the longer course, and 13 and over for the shorter distance.

The swim will be held in the pool and the run will take place on the paths around The Groe.

Speaking about the event, Iolo Williams said: "This is an amazing event raising funds for The Bracken Trust, a very worthwhile cause. Bringing a new sport to the area is fantastic for the community and boosts people's enthusiasm in keeping fit. So sorry I can't be there on the day, but would just like to wish everyone taking part the best of luck - and have fun!"

Co-organiser Helen Tuite explained that the event has been adapted following feedback from last year to encourage wider participation.

"Following feedback from last year's event, we've opened it up to allow anyone as young as 13 to enter,” she said.

“And there's no maximum age - last year, our oldest competitor was 74! We thought it would be good to include a shorter event for those people who haven't taken part in anything like this before, or for those who don't feel up to swimming or running the longer distances. You can do any stroke in the swim and even walk the 1.9 miles if you like.

“We will also be providing an information session at the pool prior to the event to show people how it all works, and give them the opportunity to ask as many questions as they want."

Participants can also raise sponsorship for The Bracken Trust, with all those raising £100 or more entered into a prize draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher.

The deadline to enter is Sunday, August 3, with entry fees set at £15 or £10 depending on the chosen distance.

To register or find out more, visit www.entrycentral.com/builthwellsaquathlon2025 or join the Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/builthwellsaquathlon.

For any questions, contact Helen on 07941 416303.

Local support for the aquathlon has once again been strong, with PAR Homes confirmed as headline sponsor.

The inaugural 2024 aquathlon drew 77 entrants ranging from age 19 to 74 and raised £4,284 for Cancer Research UK - twice the amount organisers initially hoped for.

The Bracken Trust charity, which this year's event is in aid of, provides support, advice and counselling to families affected by cancer in Wales.

Located in a beautiful, secluded premises in Llandrindod Wells, the charity offers help by providing information, advice, support, counselling and complementary therapies to anyone affected by cancer.

For more information about the charity, please visit: brackentrust.org.uk