The region's strongest men flexed their muscles during an annual test of might at the weekend.

The final of the North-East Strongest Man competition took place during the Barnard Castle truck show, which was held at Streatlam Farm over the bank holiday weekend.

The entrants, competing for a place in the national final, took part in several energy sapping events.

Tasks included the log-lift, wheel flip, back-to-back tug o' war and the ever popular truck pull.

This year's winner was Simon Morton from Haltwhistle, near Hexham, Northumberland, with Micky Wilson from Rotherham second and defending champion Dave Arnott from Annfield Plain in third.

Organiser Bob Daglish predicted a bright future for the champion, who lifted the title for the second time after a close battle.

He said: "He's going to be stepping up the ladder from here and he'll be competing in Britain's Strongest Man next year."

The annual truck show attracted entries from all over the country and wagons on show ranged from vintage collections to modern fleets.

The show included a competition, with prizes in 23 different classes. Judges look at several criteria, including condition of the vehicle, interior and paintwork.

Haulier John Toulson, who organises the show, said the event had been a great success.

He said: "We've had trucks from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales and everybody's enjoyed it.

"It's open to members of the public and we've had trade stands here for everybody to buy bits and pieces with every accessory you can imagine on sale."