“JUST go for it” is the message of a military-mission style champion.

Anthony Callaghan, of Lydney, says the fact he’s 50 years-old doesn’t stop him from taking on tough missions.

He said: “I won again. I took part in a march in the Brecon Beacons – but at night – it was also the first time an SAS night march has been put on for civilians.

“It was called High Moon and I hoped to have good visibility, but I didn’t. The hill mist came down which severely restricted visibility.

“The format was much the same – carry a weighted Bergen rucksack of essential equipment over mountains and meet check points manned by the SAS/Special Boat Service.

“The ground conditions were snow and ice. Going down the mountains was extremely slippery and a couple of times I tried to avoid some and run in the snow verge – only to go knee deep and tumble face down in it.

“On the peaks and the ridge line, there was a bitterly cold wind. It blew the mist into your face, and it stung.

“When I finished my bag was weighed and verified. It had to be over 25lb, it was 31-32lb. I’m now High Moon master champion, along with the others.

“I’m due an award but haven’t received it yet. As it was in the early hours and some were still on the mountains. All my test marches have been within SAS selection pass times.

“The next test marches are set in Elan Valley, in mid Wales, but as of yet the dates haven’t been set. I’m 50 and believe age shouldn’t be a barrier, if there’s something you want to do, go for it!”