TWO former Tavistock school students are to take up the Iron Man challenge in the south of France.

Simon Bawden and Tom Skelton, who now live in London but both were brought up in Mary Tavy, have entered the competition that is to be staged in Nice on Sunday, June 26.

The event consists of a 2.4 mile swim followed by a 112 mile cycle ride followed by a marathon. The disciplines have to be completed within 17 hours.

As well as the personal pride in completing the course within the allotted time there is an added incentive to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. The target is £1,000 and they are half way there.

Simon has completed a blog on the progress of training which can be viewed on http://www.ironsi.blogspot.com">www.ironsi.blogspot.com

There is a link http://www.justgiving.com/simon-bawden">www.justgiving.com/simon-bawden that leads to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust for anyone wanting to donate.

Both their families wish Tom and Simon 'bon chance.'