A Waveney planner narrowly missed out on a medal when he took on some of the world's best multi-sport athletes at the weekend.

Iain Robertson, who works at Waveney District Council's Lowestoft offices as an area planning officer, competed at the World Duathlon Championships in Nancy, France, on Sunday.

The event saw the 37-year-old from Trowse, near Norwich, tackle a 10km run followed by a technical 40km bike leg and a further 5km run.

He came fourth in the 35 to 39 age group, completing the race in one hour, 56 minutes and 47 seconds – missing out on a podium position by just over 90 seconds.

Robertson, who won Norwich Triathlon this year and is the current Eastern Region Champion for the Olympic distance triathlon, said: 'A solid first run and bike leg put me in contention for a medal – although I was not quite able to maintain this position, it has given me confidence that I can compete successfully at this level.

'This season has been my most successful to date. I am delighted with my performance and to end the season on a high.'

The member of Norwich-based triathlon club Tri-Anglia was joined by other club members taking part in the event, including Chris Arnold, who lives between Beccles and Bungay, and Iain Dawson from New Buckenham in Norfolk.