A TEAM from Swanage law firm Ellis Jones solicitors has been training hard for one of the UK’s toughest endurance races.

The 12-mile ‘Tough Mudder’ obstacle challenge, designed by British special forces, takes place near Winchester this Saturday.

It involves military-style obstacles, rugged terrain and water hazards.

Ellis Jones’ managing partner Nigel Smith, who is leading a 20-strong team, said: “We’ve tackled some tough physical challenges over the years but this has to be right up there as one of the most extreme.

“I’m facing it with a mixture of trepidation, excitement and genuine fear.”

The Ellis Jones team also includes partners Lauren Day, Sean McNally and Nigel Taylor; associates Kate Brooks and Sam Wiley; solicitors including Neil Cook and six trainees.

They’ve been in training for the event, with weekly sessions on Branksome Beach, Poole, since August.

These sessions, led by personal trainer Martyn Powell, have included swimming and running in the sea, team building exercises, running up cliffs and an army crawling exercise in the sand.

Nigel said: “It has been a great team-building exercise as our plan is to stick together and help each other through the obstacle challenge.

“We’ll also be raising money for Help for Heroes, adding to the £1million-plus raised for this fantastic charity by Tough Mudder events.”