GIGGLESWICK School’s head of outdoor pursuits has completed the gruelling Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB).

Chris Wright finished the Alpine ultra-run – a 171km circuit of Europe’s highest mountain with 10,300m of ascent – in 45 hours and 49 minutes.

Chris, who was one of 1,779 finishers from 2,500 who started, said: "The UTMB was an incredible experience. It is the hardest thing I have ever done but the most amazing feeling to cross the finish line.

“I met lots of interesting people and was privileged to run in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, visiting three countries along the way. It was exhausting, uplifting and unforgettable.”

Chris runs Giggleswick’s outdoor pursuits department offering pupils the chance to develop skills in activities including climbing, orienteering, cycling, caving and mountaineering.

And just getting on the start line at Mont Blanc was a feat in itself as he had to accumulate enough points by completing a number of other ultra races to qualify for a place in the massively over-subscribed event with runners from all over the world.

School headmaster Mark Turnbull said: “A huge well done to Chris from our entire school. Chris is a great inspiration to us all. The UTMB took dedication, fitness, and enormous strength of mind and we are all in awe of what was an incredible adventure.”

Chris is now busy organising an ultra-running conference to be held at Giggleswick next April.