A former Royal Marine from Kessingland has taken on the Ironman UK challenge in memory of his friends.

Eastern Daily Press: Jonathan Meen taking on the Ironman challenge. Picture: Courtesy of Jonathan Meen.Jonathan Meen taking on the Ironman challenge. Picture: Courtesy of Jonathan Meen. (Image: Archant)

Jonathan Meen, 44, served in the Royal Marines for just under five years and took on the challenge in Bolton on Saturday.

The 140.6 mile route saw him swimming 2.4 miles, before cycling 112 miles around the Lancashire countryside and ending with a 26.2 mile run.

Competitors had to complete the course in under 17 hours, with Mr Meen making it to the finish line in just over 14 hours.

He said: 'I wanted to raise money for the Royal Marines Association because during my time in the Marines a few of my friends were killed so I did it in their memory.

'It was very challenging and I had to do a lot of long bike rides at weekends, which was difficult because it meant family time was non-existent.

'But I am proud that I have done it.'

Mr Meen has raised £2,390 for the charity, which supports Royal Marine cadets, recruits, serving and veteran marines as well as their relatives.

Mr Meen has previously completed a walk of Hadrian's Wall to raise money for Help for Heroes.

Anyone who would like to sponsor him can visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jonathan-meen1