LYDNEY-based amputee athlete Andy Lewis has become the British Triathlon champion following a great performance in the Elite Championships held in Liverpool.

The event involved a 750m swim, a 20k bike ride and a 5k run - all of which took place in the face of the remnants of the Hurricane Bertha.

Andy described the conditions as dreadful but said: "I had to get it done. I wanted to do it for all the people who have supported me over the last eight months."

He only began training for triathlon events in January but in just eight months has proved himself a formidable opponent. Among his successes he has won two British championship events and a bronze medal in a world triathlon.

Andy, who has dedicated the win to "good friend" Clint Grindle, victim of a crash on the A48 near Blakeney, said support from family and friends played a massive part in his training programme.

Triathlon, he said, demanded dedication, determination and commitment. "Everyone should have a goal and just keep working towards that goal until it is reached," he said.

Andy will now represent Great Britain in a competition in Madrid.