WORLD class weightlifters will be pushing the limits next month at a British championship event which has been switched to Leigh.

And local world beater Mike Pyke, who has helped organise the men's and women's championships being held on Saturday, February 3, will be out to beat the best and book his place on an April flight to America.

Wheelchair-bound Mike, born in Leigh but now living in Hindsford, played a major role in arranging the event when the usual Stoke Mandeville venue became unavailable for the British Weightlifting Association Disabled championships.

Enthusiastic Mike, who overcame a series of set-backs last year to top the world tables with a brilliant win in the USA, reckons the sparks will fly when the gold medallists take the stage.

Mike, who refuses to let spina bifida cramp his lifestyle, said: "It should be a cracker with both men and women competitors.

"There'll be five world champions taking part including myself and two Olympic gold medallists.

"There's a lot at stake with this event also being a qualifier for a big USA tournament, the Oklahoma classic on April 20.

"Anybody who wants to come along is welcome, they'll enjoy some impressive power-lifting."

The women's session begins at 11am and the men take the stage at 1pm at Flex Fitness Centre in West Bridgewater Street, Leigh.