To support the service that saved his dad's life a few years ago, a Worksop man is to undergo the ultimate challenge this month.

Thirty-seven year old Luke will tackle what is known as the toughest Ironman challenge, in Wales on Sunday, September 13, to raise cash for Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire Air Ambulance.

He has been training for 10 months in preparation for the gruelling 3.8km sea swim at Tenby, 180m cycle and final marathon run.

Training has gone to plan he said, apart from a sickening glitch when his £10,000 bike was stolen three weeks ago: as it was taken from the roadway, he was unable to claim insurance.

Andrew Jarvis (rt) was rescued by the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance when he suffered a cardiac arrest.

placeholder image — Andrew Jarvis (rt) was rescued by the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance when he suffered a cardiac arrest.

Luke said: "This is the first challenge like this I've done, so I've prepared as best I can.

"I really want to help boost funds for the air ambulance as it definitely saved my dad's life five years ago."

He continued: "Dad was refereeing a Sunday League football game when he suffered cardiac arrest and had to be airlifted to hospital.

"His heart stopped and local physio Shannon Brooks helped by using a defibrillator on him before the air team arrived.

Andrew Jarvis with Shannon Brooks, who used a defibrillator to help him prior to the arrival of the air ambulance.

"He was in a coma in intensive care, and was woken the next day after an operation to put a stent in his heart."

His father, retired teacher Andrew Jarvis, slowly recovered over the following year, he said.

"I feel so strongly that the air ambulance should be better funded as it's such an important asset", added Luke.

"I've no doubt that dad would not be here if that facility had not been there for him.”

Cardiac arrest survivor Andrew Jarvis of Worksop, with one of his grandchildren.

Today, the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance is working to introduce a second helicopter. They cover one of the largest operational areas in the country, with great demand for their service.

"The air ambulance is not cheap to fly or maintain but it's a lifesaver and any sponsorship people can give me, however small, will be appreciated,” said Luke.

"My goal is to raise at least £1,000 towards the £500,000 needed for a second helicopter, but I would like to raise much more.”

Luke also hopes to show his two children, aged 14 and 10, that 'it's possible to do anything you put your mind to'.

To support Luke, visit his justgiving page at https://tinyurl.com/45sy2wje