A charitable man who was raised thousands after embarking challenging adventures, is reaching the final leg of his endurance triathlon.

Matthew Dawson, an IT director from Rickmansworth, has already conquered extraordinary endurance challenges such as a 335km cycle from the east to west coast of the UK, and a 17km swim in Lake Windmere.

Now the father of two is completing the Virgin Money London Marathon, in hopes to support inclusion charity Access Sport – which encourages young disabled people, people from lower socio-economic backgrounds and other disadvantaged groups to get into regular sports.

Mr Dawson has been a trustee at Access Sport since 2020 , and hopes to get young people into the best physical and mental health as well as creating new opportunities for them.

He said: “I’m really pleased that the overall Tri With Access Sport campaign has now raised over £14,000, which will help Access Sport create more opportunities in sport for disabled children and those from under-served communities. Each event so far has had its challenges, but all have been so worth it.

“The ride was tough, but because there were four of us riding, we could all help each other.”

Watford Observer: Matthew Dawson (second to left) during the cycleMatthew Dawson (second to left) during the cycle

Takling about the challenges he faced, he said: “The swim was also tough, especially as I’ve had a couple of major surgeries recently, which make swimming in cold water really hard at times. Looking ahead to the London Marathon, I also suffer from calf and Achilles issues, so need to make sure I manage these for the run, but I’m sure the crowd and other runners will get me round.

“Physical activity is a big part of my life and if I’ve inspired others to get involved then that’s a great feeling!”

Mr Dawson alone has raised over £3,765, helping reach the total Tri With Access Sport campaign goal of £30,000.

He is encouraging others to participate in the campaign challenge.

The challenge can be any physical activity that is challenging for you, to find out more visit: https://www.accesssport.org.uk/tri-with-access-sport

Money can also be donated directly to the fundraiser here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/tri-with-access-sport?success=true