Karl Read, who is helping to organise an Ironman triathlon at Cromer in July.

Hundreds of the UK’s toughest athletes are set to descend on Cromer for the town’s newest tourist event next summer.

Plans are being put in place for an Ironman triathlon, with 200 individuals and 50 relay teams expected to take part.

The event, on July 27, comprises a 2.4-mile swim from West Runton to Cromer, a 112-mile cycle ride along the coast road on two 56-mile loops and a 26.2-mile run along the prom, to Overstrand, Northrepps and back - repeated five times.

At Cromer Town Council on Monday, a letter was read out from Karl Read, North Norfolk District Council’s sports and leisure services manager.

He said the event was being organised by Simon Brierley, and added: “Each of the contestants will have to be in Cromer the day before to register and the day after for the prize giving.

“Therefore all participants and their families and friends will be in Cromer and the surrounding area for a minimum of three days and two nights and potentially more, as I’m sure many would make an extended break/holiday out of it.

“There will be other trade stands invited and music supplied locally to give the event a real festival atmosphere.”

He added that he was liaising with Mr Brierley about “the logistics of travelling along the prom”, and said: “I think you’ll agree that this would be a fantastic event for the town, and great for tourism and the local economy.”

Deputy mayor David Pritchard said he was “looking forward” to it, but had “grave concerns” about the availability of places to stay during the event.

Hilary Thompson said: “It’s going to be a good thing for the town.”

Members agreed to Mr Brierley’s request to attend a town council meeting to talk about the event.