IRONMAN will be back in Bolton next year for its tenth anniversary .
Bolton Council has secured the triathlon — billed as one of the most gruelling — and the world's largest Ironkids races for a further five years.
The announcement was made just days after the event in which more than 2000 athletes completing the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run finishing in the Bolton town centre.
Ironman UK is one of the largest global sporting events held in the North West, and attracts thousands of athletes and visitors from around the world.
The event is worth around £3 million a year to the local economy and Bolton has successfully staged the triathlon since 2009.
Since coming to Bolton, the race has grown from 1500 athletes to more than 2500 each year and continues to be one of the most popular races amongst athletes from around the UK and the world.
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Cliff Morris, said: "This is fantastic for Bolton and for the region. Ironman UK brings in millions of pounds to the local economy and the whole town really gets behind it.
"It showcases Bolton — the countryside, the people, the town — at its best to visitors from around the world.
"Together with the Ironkids event, the whole weekend always brings a real boost to the town."
PICTURES: 140+ super fit images from Ironman UK 2017
PICTURES: 100+ Brilliant Ironman images that you have not seen yet
WINNER: Cyril Viennot wins Bolton Ironman UK competition and strolls over finishing line
Ironman UK Race Director, Sam Brawn added: "Having just completed another fantastic event in Bolton, we are delighted to announce that Bolton will remain the home of Ironman UK for the next five years.
"This year was just another reminder of why this race and destination has become such a popular choice amongst athletes from all over the UK and the world. The course offers a real challenge and the support from the people of Bolton and surrounding areas is simply incredible.
"Planning for the 2018 event is already underway and together with Bolton Council, we look forward to taking Ironman UK to even greater heights."
Ironman UK 2018 will take place on Sunday, July 15.
General entries will be available online on www.ironman.com/uk - the date entries will open will be confirmed by Ironman UK.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here