COMPETITORS were proving they were made of strong stuff as they battled snow and sub zero temperatures to take part in an annual Strongman qualifier on Saturday.

Twelve brave men stepped up to the plate for the competition at JP Fitness, in Spennymoor, County Durham.

Held outdoors, the men were put through their paces with everything from deadlifts with 370kg to the farmer's walk with 140kg in each hand.

The competition sees men from all over the North of England take part with three qualifying in the hope of being named strongest man in England before attempting to take the UK Strongman title.

Organiser, Mark Lawson, said all competitors showed great strength, especially in the harsh conditions.

More than 200 people also turned out to cheer them on in the freezing temperatures.

The three top qualifiers were Graham Hicks, Sean Logan and Mark Snape.

Mr Lawson said: "We have always produced the best athletes and this year I think this year the North is going to bring the title home."