A TYCROES business woman had her survival, and design, skills tested by a real expert last week when she ran a course created by Bear Grylls.

Because not only did Polly Powell, director of Tycroes-based inflatables firm Race Arches UK, take part in Bear Grylls Survival Race, she also supplied the finishing post.

So when Polly crossed the line after an impressive 1hr 10mins, it was through the posts of her company's inflatable race arch.

Bear commissioned Race Arches UK, who have their base at Tycroes Industrial Park, for his first ever Survival Race held at Trent Park, London, with the event consisting of a multi distance series of mud / obstacle races, combined with survival challenges. And the survival expert was happy to meet up with Polly after the race.

Polly, who started Race Arches UK in 2008, regularly supplies race arches and gantries, tents and other essential pieces to race organisers. The firm also creates giant inflatables of all descriptions.

Her busy year has seen her provide products for a range of high-profile races including supplying a huge, eye-catching giant pig to sit on the Thames during the prestigious AJ Bell London Triathlon in August.