BOLTON firefighter Paul Norris is gearing up to pit his skills and strength against some of the fittest people in the country.

On Thursday, he flies out to the Italian Alps to begin three days of intense physical challenges which will decide who represents the UK in the prestigious 2006 Fulda Challenge.

The 41-year-old firefighter, who lives in Smithills and is based at Farnworth fire station, will be up against four male and five female competitors in a test of endurance, determination and driving ability.

The activities will include ice climbing, cross-country skiing, mountain bike race, chasm crossing and snowshoe trekking. If successful, he will travel to the Yukon Territory in Canada early next year for the finals of the Fulda Challenge.

"To get through to this stage of the selection process is a great achievement and I hope that I am successful in Italy," Paul said.

"My training schedule has been very strict and I have been sticking to it rigidly.

"I am thoroughly looking forward to Italy and I am ready for a battle! All I can do is it give it my all and hopefully finish at the top of the scoreboard."