IT was a day of running, swimming and cycling for first-time participants and seasoned athletes alike.

The St Swithun's Triathlon, a brand new event at the school on Alresford Road, was run by Eastleigh firm TryTri, who organised the May Day triathlon earlier this year.

There were staggered starts to include waves for novices and children.

Nikki Rees, managing director of Rees Leisure, the parent company of TryTri, said: "The inaugural St Swithun's Triathlon was a great success with nearly 450 triathletes signed up to race and we were lucky enough to have fantastic weather shining on the picturesque grounds at St Swithun's School and rural surroundings for the event.

" We've had some brilliant feedback from both first time and experienced TryTri participants as well as the spectators enjoying the atmosphere on the day. With Cancer Research UK as the lead charity for this triathlon, we are looking forward to releasing the final fundraising total once this has been collated.

"The team at ReesLeisure would like to thank everyone who supported this first year event and hope you are looking forward to our next event, the Winchester Half Marathon in September. A thoroughly enjoyable day for all, we hope this event will continue for many years to come."