POWERLIFTER Mark Woodcock had a weight on his mind.

Faced with the dilemma of either representing Great Britain for the first time, or being present at the birth of his son, he decided there was no choice.

He didn't want to miss the birth even for his country!

But fate stepped in and baby Max Jon was born a month prematurely, leaving the July date free for Mark to join the GB squad for the European Union championships in Arnheim, Holland.

The 67 kilo star beat off competition from 13 other countries to secure the individual bronze medal and help the team to overall silver.

Mark, of Peregrine Drive, Leigh, who started powerlifting 15 years ago, was selected to represent Britain after gaining second spot in June at the British senior championships in Birmingham.

He said: "The trip was nearly cancelled as Jacqueline was due to give birth the week before. Luckily Max was born four weeks early giving me the green light to represent my country and fulfil my powerlifting ambition.

"I didn't want to miss the birth not even for my country, so they both did me a big favour."

Really proud

Jacqueline said: "I went to Warrington General Hospital on June 8 just for a check up but two and a half hours later I'd had the baby. He's impatient like his dad, but I'm really proud of them both."

Mark, who as a youngster played rugby for Leigh Juniors and Leigh Miners, had a year's break from the sport and decided to take up bodybuilding to bulk out his small frame.

His powerlifting talent was spotted at Leigh's Flex Gym in 1987 and he represented England for the first time in 1994.

He said: "Max won't be getting into it though, there's too many injuries and no money. I've suffered a prolapsed disc, a trapped nerve which left me paralysed for five days and a severe groin tear.

"It's an addictive sport and after 15 years you just can't stop. I'd like to thank my coach, Martin Lydon, for all his help."