Leigh Barnett, director of GQ Wealth Management, took on a Tough Mudder challenge on farmland in Kettering, Northamptonshire.

He started training for the 20km (12.4-mile) military-style assault course in April with help and advice from Chris Lansdowne, the physio at Stortford rugby club.

As part of his preparation, Leigh competed in a similar event called Nuclear Rush. It is run over a shorter distance and he was surprised at just how tough it was.

Leigh was inspired from that point to train at least one hour a day, six times a week.

Illness almost put paid to his efforts, but he recovered in time to tackle Tough Mudder.

“Being electrocuted wasn’t nice and the muddy water obstacles and ice bath left you smelling of manure and feeling quite cold.”

“The good thing was how hard I had trained for the event paid dividends on the day and I surprised myself in what an improvement my performance was compared to Nuclear Rush.”

On why he chose to raise money for Grove Cottage, Stortford’s Mencap centre in London Road, he said: “After I visited last year and saw what a great thing they were doing – and with such limited funding – it was a no-brainer.

“I take my hat off to all the volunteers and the people who keep Grove Cottage running.”

So far, Leigh has raised more than £800 for the Observer appeal, which is moving close to the £20,000 mark.