A local solicitor has completed a notoriously gruelling Ironman triathlon, to raise money for a brain injury charity.


Gemma Roberts, a serious injury lawyer, undertook a 2.4 mile swim and 95 mile bike ride, followed by a marathon.


Thanks to generous donations from Gemma’s family, friends and colleagues, an impressive £1,866 has been raised for Headway Preston and Chorley.


Gemma spent 12 months training with Wigan’s Invictus Triathlon Club in preparation for the Ironman event, which took place on 15 July in Bolton.


Despite injuring her Achilles tendon during the marathon, Gemma successfully finished what is considered one of the toughest one-day sporting events in the world.



Gemma decided to support Headway Preston and Chorley after becoming familiar with the charity through her work at Fletchers.



Headway offers support, services and information to brain injury survivors, including many of Fletchers’ clients, their families and carers, as well as to professionals in the health and legal fields.



Gemma said: “When I started this journey, I set a target of £1,000 thinking that it might be a bit ambitious. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be able to reach nearly £2,000.



“There were so many highs and lows throughout the experience, but raising such a fantastic sum of money for an amazing cause has made it all worthwhile.



“The support on the day from my family, friends and club mates really helped to spur me on, and the feeling when I crossed the finish line, with the announcer shouting ‘Gemma Roberts, you are an Ironman’, was phenomenal.”



Sarah Charnley, chairperson for Headway Preston and Chorley, said: “I am delighted and honoured that Gemma chose Headway Preston and Chorley as the charity to benefit from her Ironman challenge.



“Gemma’s Ironman journey involved gruelling hours of training through all weathers, and during this time she also qualified as a solicitor.



“How she managed to complete so many miles despite injury and the phenomenal heat is a mystery, but she was so determined, and her account of the day itself captivated us all.”