A FORMER teacher is preparing for his first world championships, in the growing sport of kettlebell.

Simon Trenholm, from Stockton, will head to the championships in Hamburg, Germany as part of the England squad.

His selection represents a remarkable achievement for the 42-year-old as he started competing just 18 months ago.

He said: “It is not every day that you get the opportunity to represent your country.

"I am looking to enjoy the experience and aiming for a personal best."

He will compete at amateur level, in the biathlon event, lifting 24kg bells as part of the 78kg weight category.

The championships run from November 20 to 24.

Biathlon requires athletes to raise the bells above their heads in two separate ten minute events; the snatch using one and the jerk with two bells.

“I have performed well at recent events, achieving a personal best in Manchester so I have chosen not to compete at veteran level and I am looking forward to taking on athletes from across the world,” he added.

Mr Trenholm taught science in Middlesbrough during the 1990s.

Now employed by a teacher recruitment agency, he took up the sport as an alternative to running and to aid his climbing.

Training for the championships is held at the Tu Nova kettlebell facility in Darlington, and takes place seven days a week.

Coach Steven Gordon, who is also competing at the championships, said: “This competition represents a new experience for Simon and he deserves his opportunity.

"He needs to maintain his high standards and aim for a personal best."

Organised by the sport’s world body, the International Union of Kettlebell Lifting, more than 400 athletes are set to compete and the competition represents the first time England has sent a squad.