THE years of gruelling training have paid off for Herculean Stephen Brooks.

He has finally achieved his dream of becoming the UK's Strongest Man.

The 35-year-old from Spennymoor, County Durham, clinched the title at the weekend after battling it out with seven others in Liverpool.

Event organiser Geoff Capes told the muscleman that his performances had been one of the gutsiest he had seen.

His proud wife Lynn, 34, and nine-year-old daughter Lianne were there cheering him on and are absolutely delighted by his success.

Mrs Brooks said: "Lianne loves it. She was running around with the trophy and she is very proud of her dad.''

Mr Brooks turned professional last April so he could concentrate on a gruelling training programme to help him gain national status.

He trains four times a week at Cutz and Curves Gym, in Leadgate, and concentrates on event favourites such as pulling trucks and lifting cars up to twice a week at Tursdale Enterprise Park.

His success now means he is available to take part in exhibitions and promotion events to help further his career, which takes him around the world.

"I can't believe it but I would like to say a special thanks to my coach and trainer Alan Turner, Tursdale Enterprise Park, Spennymoor Town Council, Stephen Sawley Transport and all my friends and family for the tremendous support they have shown me."

l The weekend's events can be seen on Sky Sports on September 29 and 30, and Monday October 3.