CHRIS Keeble, director of Constantine Bay Stores, raised funds for Lawhitton-based Cornwall Community Foundation (CCF) the hard way.

Chris swam 1.2 miles, cycled 56 miles and ran 13.1 miles to complete the Staffordshire 70.3 Ironman Triathlon last weekend.

The generosity of his friends and customers enabled Chris to raise more than £7,000 for the CCF North Cornwall Fund. Chris said: “I am very grateful to the many people who have donated to this great cause, supporting communities and people who struggle in Cornwall.”

CCF is an independent charity that invests in communities to improve the lives of others in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The North Cornwall Fund is a newly established fund set up to support volunteer-led, grassroots community groups who are making a positive impact in the north of the county, an area where significant deprivation exists alongside comparative wealth. CCF has a target to create a fund of £100,000 initially.

Jo Riley, CCF philanthropy director, said: “This was a great initiative by Chris, raising a magnificent total. The donations were certainly hard earned with Chris training for and completing the gruelling 70.3-mile course! The Foundation is very grateful indeed to Chris.

“CCF is delighted to have established the North Cornwall Fund that will be specifically focused on helping people and communities in the area in perpetuity. There is much need. In Camelford, for example 40.3% of children live in poverty, the second highest rate in Cornwall.”

To donate to the North Cornwall Fund, visit www.cornwallcommunityfoundation.com