FEARLESS competitors took on a gruelling obstacle course during the weekend, plunging into ice, clambering through mud, and scaling impossibly high walls.

Tough Mudder South West 2014 took place in Cirencester Park on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August.

Thousands turned up to take part in the course, dubbed "Probably the Toughest Event on the Planet".

Participants teamed up and had to dive head first into icy water, swing across slippery monkey bars, jump off a 15 foot high plank into muddy water and more.

Tough Mudder is a 10-12 mile obstacle course designed to test all-around strength, stamina, teamwork, and mental grit.

Only 78 per cent of participants complete the course, which organisers say is all about team work and facing fears.

Those competing are required to make a pledge beforehand, promising that they will put team work before their course team.

Those who finished the course took to social media the night after and sang their praises about the course, saying they "felt alive" despite the aches getting worse. 

The Standard team took part on the Saturday and survived the course... although a few team members are still suffering a few aches and pains this morning.

Full report and more pictures to come.