A HEALTH and wellness editor has named Bolton's Ironman in her four of the best sporting events to sign up to.

The gruelling triathlon is one of the epic fitness challenges to feature in the list compiled by Liz Connor from Press Association.

She says that "the Ironman concept is notoriously brutal."

It involves taking on a savage 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile cycle, 26-mile run, and with no breaks in between.

But it takes place in Bolton, which race organisers have dubbed Britain's 'friendliest town'!

And in the pursuit of Ironman glory, competitiors will swim in Pennington Flash, climb some tough hills on the bike and finish the run in Bolton town centre.

This year it takes place on July 12.

For information visit ironman.com.

Other sporting challenges features include Quest Wales ­— which involves running, cycling and kayaking in spectacular natural scenery ­— with Snowdonia National Park as the backdrop ­—The Great North Swim and Tough Mudder.