Athletes sprinted, cycled, and swam in St Albans to raise about £2,000 for charity for people with life-limiting illnesses.

More than 50 people came to Westminster Lodge for the fourth annual Mayor’s City Sprint Triathlon on Sunday (May 7) in aid of Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

The triathletes rode 5km on stationary bikes, made their way through eight lengths of the swimming pool, and then went outside to complete a 3km off-road run.

St Albans mayor Cllr Frances Leonard officially opened the event: “The Mayor’s City Sprint Triathlon is really accessible and is designed for competitors of all abilities, from beginners to athletes who regularly take part in triathlons.

“I want to thank everyone who rose to the challenge and competed in this great community event to help raise funds for Rennie Grove.”

The event was originally launched by then mayor, now St Albans district council’s portfolio holder for sport, heritage and leisure, Cllr Annie Brewster.

Director of fund raising and marketing at Rennie Grove, Gillian Barnett, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the mayor’s triathlon such a success this year - the mayor, Everyone Active Westminster Lodge, all our lovely volunteers, and everyone who took part and created such a fun and supportive atmosphere.”

She said £2,000 could fund 80 hours of specialist nursing care.

The youngest person to compete was 12-year-old Maisy Manson, who came with her dad, Neil Manson.

Speedy sportsman Matthew Lambden finished first in 20 minutes and 48 seconds.