A company director has revealed how he overcame a fear of water to raise money for charity in triathlons – and land a role as an Olympic torchbearer.

Father-of-two Steve Newell, from Ilkley, will carry the torch through the streets of Bradford on Sunday, June 24, after being nominated by colleagues at Spooner Industries.

And the 46-year-old has revealed his excitement at being picked for the task.

He was chosen by organisers of the London 2012 games after helping raise about £10,000 for various causes after competing in his first mini-triathlon, which involves, swimming, cycling and running.

“I was already excited about the Olympics coming to the UK but to play a part in it by being chosen as a torchbearer is more than I could have wished for,” he said.

“I am a big believer in sport’s ability to transform lives and I hope the activities I take part in, and the fundraising I have been involved in, have shown just what a powerful force for good it can be.”

But the challenge of competing in triathlons was even more difficult for Mr Newell given his fear of water and he has spent hundreds of hours to improve his swimming before taking part in his first Ironman event – swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 miles and then running a marathon – last year in aid of the Rotary Club and cancer charities.

“In my first events, I swam breaststroke very slowly,” he said.

“I hadn’t done much swimming before and tended to be a bit scared of the water. It made it easy for my family to spot me as I was always the one in last place.

“Eventually I decided I had better learn to swim front crawl and started splashing away at Ilkley swimming baths at lunch times and having coaching with Craven Energy triathlon club in Skipton on Saturdays.

“Getting my swimming and fitness to such a level that I was able to complete the Ironman last year was amazing.”

It will be a double day of celebration in Mr Newell’s household when he carries the torch – his daughter Rebecca will turn 13 on the same day.

“My wife Alison and son Matthew will be down with Rebecca and a host of other family and friends, and it promises to be a terrific occasion,” he said.