A MOULTON duathlete will represent his country after successfully raising funds for costs.

Alex Cartney got into running seven years ago when he weighed 22 stone will now compete for Great Britain after raising £1,200 to cover accommodation, travel and kit.

This is the second time Alex has represented his country and he will take part in men’s open age competition in Romania on Thursday, July 27.

He said: “Excited but nervous are probably the best words to use right now.

“I’d like to thank all my sponsors and everyone who has supported me in getting to this point. It’s an absolute honour to represent my country.

“It’s something that you dream about as a kid so to say I’m doing it for a second time is massive for me and it’s not a place I expected to be in now.

“To get chosen again is extra special but I’ve got the bug now and I’ll be wanting to do it for as long as possible.

“Training has been tough but it’s enjoyable. You just do it for the love of the sport.

“I’ve had a couple of niggles along the way in terms in injuries but that is where my therapist has been a life saver.

“But all of my sponsors have been great as well. Some of them I knew personally and some I have never met before so it’s been fantastic to have all this support.

“I’ll be putting in 100 per cent effort all the way. A top 10 finish would be great but I’m just going to go out there and enjoy it. Who knows what will happen.”

Alex’s main sponsors are Life and Vitality, Nigel Bailey Hair and Your Sports Therapist.