A DAD of two has successfully completed a triathlon just over a year after a stroke left him unable to walk.

Paul Medcalfe, 42, from Crawshawbooth raised £800 for the Stroke Association after completing the Kendal Triathlon Sprint event, beating his personal best in the process.

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Paul suffered a stroke in June 2014 while out on an early morning run.

He underwent intensive physiotherapy after being left with mild aphasia and nervous system damage.

And all his hard work paid off when he completed the Kendal event in one hour, 28 minutes and 37 seconds –15 seconds faster than his personal best before the stroke.

Paul said: “The weather was perfect and I was spurred on by the fact I started surrounded by the top 10 finishers and triathletes wearing GB outfits. I owe a big thanks to my wonderful supportive wife, family and friends and everyone at Rossendale Triathlon club, who supported me on the day and throughout my preparation.

“I didn’t realise that stroke can affect people of any age and I’m keen to raise awareness so that more people understand the condition.

“The Stroke Association has been a lifeline and has given me lots of encouragement so that I can enjoy life after stroke. I hope that by supporting the charity, other families can get the help I was lucky enough to have received.”

Paul was inspired to sign up for the triathlon after the charity’s local Information, Advice and Support Service supported him as he began to rebuild his life.

The triathlon at Kendal Leisure Centre included a 400m swim, 18km bike ride and 5km run. To prepare for the challenge, Paul joined Rossendale Triathlon Club, where he regularly trains.

Siân Thomas, regional fundraiser at the Stroke Association, added: “With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three-and-a-half minutes – it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for people affected by stroke.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Paul for taking on this gruelling challenge; he is proof that there is life after stroke.”

To sponsor Paul, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MeddersTri.

For more information about stroke, ring 0303 30 33 100 or visit stroke.org.uk.