'Iron Mike's' triple challenge

The 50-year-old father of two has vowed to undertake the Ironman challenge - involving cycling, swimming and running - for the Racing Welfare charity.
Mr Smith, of Mill Lane, said: “Since moving to the racing village of Lambourn nearly 15 years ago I’ve been very influenced by the racing industry and witnessed the many people who carry out invaluable work behind the scenes - riding out, cleaning out, grooming, feeding and so on and with little recognition.
“Working with race horses can be extremely hard work and also has its dangers, as I recently found when a good friend was kicked by a horse, fracturing his neck.”
Mr Smith was referring to former Grand National-winning jockey Ben De Haan who was injured at his Fairview Stables on June 26.
Mr De Haan was exercising the horse Generalyse when two cats spooked the horse.
Mr De Haan was thrown and kicked in the head.
Mr Smith said: “He will be out of action for quite a while and is recovering slowly. When these types of accidents occur Racing Welfare is there to provide the help and support needed.”
Mr Smith added: “I have run marathons and completed triathlons for charity, but this is by far my greatest challenge and I am doing it as I would like to give something back to my community.
“I see Racing Welfare supporting the unsung heroes of the racing world and therefore on the July 22 I intend to swim 2.4 miles, cycle 112 miles and run 26.2 miles in the UK Ironman challenge in Bolton to raise money for this great cause.”
Anyone who wishes to support Mr Smith, commerce manager for Stryker UK Ltd in Newbury, can visit his Just Giving web site www.justgiving.com/Mike-Smith140-6