A FORMER Leigh rugby union player has muscled his way into the final of a prestigious national body-building contest after placing second in his first ever competition.

Personal trainer John Heaton was runner-up in the novice section of the Northern British Natural Body-building Foundation competition held in Manchester.

The 32 year-old, who moved from Leigh five years ago, performed a 90-second routine to music, and was also tested on his balance muscle symmetry.

The former Bedford High pupil, who now lives in Wakefield, has only been body-building for around a year. He became interested in the sport as an extension of fitness training, a pastime which he has always kept up.

John said: "I was surprised to win, but when I arrived, I guessed that I may place in the top six.

"Coming runner-up was unexpected but I'm looking forward to the final and hope to aim for a top-six placing, even though the standard will be much tougher."

He is now preparing a training regime for the national finals in Edinburgh in October.

John added: "I'm more used to training other people in my work, but now I have to turn my attention to myself for a change."

The muscle-mad father-of-two, is currently sponsored by fitness food firm LA Muscle, and his progress is charted on the company's website.