A FEMALE bodybuilding champion is also shaping up well in her role as an adult education teacher.

Lesley Haswell broke off from preparations to defend her British natural bodybuilding title to pick up a tribute for her work with the Workers' Educational Association (WEA).

Miss Haswell and boyfriend Dale Wilson are the Natural Physique Association's (NPA) reigning couples bodybuilding champions.

The NPA promotes natural bodybuilding and bans enhancements through taking drugs.

Miss Haswell received an award from Sunderland Football Club skipper Dean Whitehead, heralding her efforts over eight years with the WEA, tutoring natural fitness skills and alternative therapies to adult learner groups.

The award also recognises her tutoring abilities and her impact on the lives of her students.

Miss Haswell, 39, a single mother with daughters aged ten and 15, also runs her own business, Physique Management, offering sport and remedial therapy, care for sports injuries and one-to-one fitness training.

She said: "I am thrilled at receiving the award, but I would like to thank all the terrific people who have come along to my WEA courses."

Nigel Todd, WEA's North-East director, said: "We are over the moon for Lesley.

"She is a wonderful tutor and has quite a loyal following.

"The WEA is keen to develop awareness of good health, and Lesley's contribution to our adult education programme is invaluable."