A previously homeless man from High Wycombe has completed the UK’s toughest triathlon event, to raise more than £2,000 for the charity that brought him “back from the brink”.

Callum Curry, 26, took on The Brutal Ironman challenge in Snowdonia on Saturday, raising £2,045 for Wycombe Homeless Connection, which he said helped him to rebuild his life.

The first challenge was a 4km swim in 13-degree waters, starting at 7.30am. Despite suffering hypothermic shock, and requiring a midway break to regain normal body temperature, Callum finished this first stage and swam 1km further than his previous personal best.

This was followed by a 160km cycle ride which included a downpour and emergency treatment by a physiotherapist.

Mr Curry said despite this, he achieved “moments of serenity” during the gruelling experience.

He said: “This was a lonely and mentally challenging lap. Racing the Mt Snowdon train along a flat section, waving to the passengers and crossing a stone bridge as the locomotive passed underneath reminded me of why you go out to events – the priceless moments you can’t get from being in front of an Xbox.”

The final challenge, a marathon distance run, culminated in the ascent and descent of Mount Snowdon.

Having run several laps around the lake at the foot of the mountain, and using a head torch to see his way in the darkness, Mr Curry said he had to convince medical staff and mountain rescue personnel that he was fit for the final challenge.

He started his ascent at 1.15am and, spurred on by the reason he was trying to raise the money, summited at 4am amid cloud and strong winds, and finished his descent by around 6am.

Mr Curry added: “What I owe Wycombe Homeless Connection can never be totally repaid, but I endeavour none the less.

“The thanks due to all those who donated, read, watched, shared, commented and believed in me, will stay with me personally for a long time, and go a long way to hopefully starting someone else’s HomelessMan to IronMan journey.”

Mr Curry has since returned to his job as a care worker and is slowly recovering from the gruelling challenge.

To donate to his cause, go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/wycombe-homeless-ironman.