A BODYBUILDER from Worcester has weight lifted his way to helping raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Stu Ritchie, who lives in Warndon Villages, competed in the Leicester Charity Body Building Show (LCBBS) earlier this month, supported by dozens of friends from Worcester.

The 32-year-old was one of many bodybuilders taking part, and showed off a variety of power poses to impress the judges.

More than £7,000 was raised for charities, including Help for Heroes, the Downs Syndrome Association and the Royal British Legion.

Mr Ritchie, who has never competed before, said: "I placed fifth, which was a big achievement for me. I enjoyed being on stage.

"The LCBBS raised over £7,000, I was very proud to be part of it."

The dad-of-three dieted for 16 weeks to prepare for the contest, while also testing himself with a gruelling exercise regime - including hours of weightlifting after work.

And despite missing out on the top spot, he hopes to compete again in the future.

For more information about the competition visit facebook.com/lcbbs