A FARMER from North Yorkshire has taken on a former SAS hero in an attempt to win a place in a gruelling adventure race.

Steven Wood hoped to join the Great Britain team to take on Europe's toughest in the Sure For Men Extreme Pamplona adventure race, which will feature a series of gruelling challenges.

He joined former SAS soldier Chris Ryan at Catterick Garrison for a training day for possible recruits.

The 39-year-old, from Thirsk, was shortlisted from more than 2,000 entrants to take on a gruelling timed course.

He had to tackle a 5km course and challenges such as wading through a river.

The candidates also took on a military-grade assault course and a 3km run across boggy fields. Mental strength was also tested as the men had to freefall 30ft from a platform until a harness tightened 5ft from the ground.

Mr Wood said: "The day was exhausting, but extremely fun, and meeting Chris Ryan was incredible."

He finished the course fourth in 14 minutes and 52 seconds, but only the top three qualified.

Mr Ryan said: "It was a really tough course and I certainly cannot fault Steven for effort.

"Steven responded fantastically and really did himself and the people of Thirsk proud."