Melanie Chisholm, still fondly remembered as Sporty Spice, jumped for joy after completing the Blenheim Palace Triathlon on Saturday.

The 42-year-old former Spice Girl, best known as Mel C, endured a 750 metre swim, 20 kilometre bike ride and a five kilometre run for blood cancer charity, Bloodwise.

Mel C said: "It's been an absolute delight to be here supporting Bloodwise in raising awareness of the great work they do for blood cancer patients."

She added: "The atmosphere out on course was something really special and gave me a real boost. It was great to get back on the triathlon scene."

Mel C joined thousands of competitors who were also raising funds and awareness to improve the lives of patients with leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

Political commentator Alastair Campbell and London 2012 silver medallist Michael Jamieson were also Blenheim Palace Triathlon participants.

The Liverpudlian pop star has lived up to her Spice Girl nickname ever since she completed her first triathlon in 2011.

She has gone on to other gruelling events include the Shock Absorber Women Only Triathlon in 2013.

Blenheim Palace Triathlon, held in the surroundings of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, is set to raise £450,000 for Bloodwise this year.

The money will be invested in research for better treatments and cures for blood cancer and support for patients with the disease.