A FATHER-OF-TWO cycled, swam and ran his way to raising £400 for charity.

David Walton, 41, of Hollywood Way, Woodford Green, took part in the London Triathlon on Sunday in a bid to raise money for the Prostate Cancer Charity.

Mr Walton, head of sport and leisure at Waltham Forest Council, completed the Olympic race distance, which is 1,500 metres of swimming, 14 kilometres of cycling and finally 10 kilometres of running.

The keen sportsman, who has been spearheading Waltham Forest's involvement in London's bid for the Olympic Games 2012, competed in the same race 20 years ago. This year he finished the course in two hours and 26 minutes.

Mr Walton's family was away on holiday, so he had no support group, but he gallantly finished the event.

He said: "It was quite hard during the race, and I was extremely tired afterwards, because Sunday afternoon was really hot, and I did not get enough to drink, so I dehydrated during the triathlon."

Even though the triathlon was successful, Mr Walton is not planning to do another one this year.

"This year I have not planned to take part in any other triathlons," he said, "but I will still be training, because I will help some of my friends, so they will be able to complete a triathlon."

The annual race was held at the heart of London's Docklands, and this year the London Triathlon surpassed The Chicago Triathlon to become the largest in the world, with more than 7,000 competitors.

If you would like to donate money to Mr Walton's charity, the Prostate Cancer Charity, please send your donations to Leigh Adams, Guardian House, 480-500 Larkshall Road, Highams Park, London E4 9GD.