WRESTLING stars are crossing the Atlantic to strut their stuff in Lancashire thanks to a determined Ribble Valley teenager.

College student Jon Farrer, 19, of Beech Drive, Longridge, has been passionate about wrestling since he was six years old after watching wrestling champ Hulk Hogan grapple in the ring and rip his tee-shirt off in the middle of a bout.

He has flexed his muscles to organise the event at Preston Guild Hall and is preparing to greet the American stars of the World Wrestling Federation as they fly in to perform on July 6.

The Global Wrestling Force will showcase British and American talent, including a female challenge with Taylor Matheny, the runner-up of the World Wrestling Federation's Tough Enough competition.

And enthusiast Jon will be interviewing the stars for the Power of Wrestling magazine.

As well as studying A-levels in English and psychology at Preston College, Jon has set up his own business organising wrestling bouts.

The Guild Hall event is his inaugural show.

"I'm now really busy studying, writing and organising events," said Jon.

"My aunt and uncle Judith and Michael Kerrigan have been very supportive and have helped me to put on this event."

But this is not the first time Jon has played host to a big wrestling champ.

Last year he rolled out the red carpet for American Wrestler Blue Meanie, who was on a visit to England. And he is hoping for big crowds at the Preston show. "It is the real thing," Jon said. "I think kids will love it and their dads.

"There's some very strange characters who wear funny costumes and really put on a show."