HUNDREDS of athletes tested their endurance levels as they took on a gruelling triathlon challenge in the shadow of one of North Yorkshire’s most famous stately homes.

The Castle Howard Triathlon, staged on Saturday, saw competitors swim, cycle and sprint around the historic estate on two tough courses as they raised funds for a charity which helps wounded British soldiers and their families.

The test of stamina saw those taking part swim either 400m or 800m of the Great Lake before switching to their bikes and riding near local villages such as Slingsby, Hovingham and Terrington and finally racing on foot around some of the tourist attraction’s ancient monuments.

Races for teenagers and children were also organised, with ten per cent of the profits going to Help For Heroes.

Competitors travelled from across the country to join in the event and camped on the estate.

The Castle Triathlon Series is designed as a showcase both for elite athletes and an opening for those who want to find out more about the sport, which now has more than 2.5 million followers across the UK.

Castle Howard has been chosen as one of four locations for a string of events throughout the summer and early autumn.

One has already been held at Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire, with further events scheduled for the Chateau de Chantilly in France next month and Hever Castle in Kent at the end of September.

More information is available at castletriathlonseries.co.uk