A LANCASTER City Council fitness instructor is bidding to become the UK's number one body builder after winning a place in the Mr Great Britain competition.

Twenty-eight-year-old Brian Tobbell, who not only works but also trains at the Salt Ayre Sports Centre fitness studio, Reflexions, has been body building seriously for the past six years and is delighted to have qualified for the prestigious competition. He hopes that eventually he will make it through to Mr Universe.

His entourage of fans - both work colleagues and Salt Ayre customers - will be sure to be cheering him on. A coach load of supporters made the recent trip to Nottingham to support him in the British Qualifying Championships.

Brian, who lives in Lancaster, said: "I worked really hard for this, training tirelessly for this competition over the last twelve months so it is brilliant to have got through.

"I am extremely grateful to everyone for their support and encouragement and would particularly like to thank Gary Foster and David Atkinson for their continued support.

Caroline, my partner, also deserves a special mention. She has been great. I suppose living with someone who has eaten egg whites and turkey for so many weeks needs a special understanding."

Salt Ayre Manager, Simon Kirby added: "We are all really chuffed for Brian. He is a popular member of staff and his broad knowledge of fitness makes him a great instructor, able to advise and assist the vast range of customers with different fitness levels.

"I know all the staff and his customers are looking forward to seeing him take part in the Mr Great Britain Competition."