John Battye battles daily with menieres disease but having trained diligently, next month the power lifter takes part in the World Bench Press Championships in New Zealand, writes CRAIG STODDART.

Menieres means that John suffers severe attacks of vertigo, which means he is subjected to extreme dizziness, vomiting and periods of deafness.

The condition forced him to retire from work 18 months ago and a surgeon once advised John not to continue his weight-lifting.

Having been a weight-lifter for 20 years, he has bravely ignored the medical advise to continue his dream of representing Great Britain.

"It all started about four years ago I thought my life had ended," he said.

"I had to leave work about 18 months ago and it caused me so much upset and I suffered from depression for six months; I didn't lave the house.

"About a year and a half ago I took the decision to restart my life."

Earlier this year he wore his country's colours at the European Championships in Latvia where he finished sixth and John managed eighth position at the World Bench Press Championships four years ago in Canada.

He doesn't expect to win a title, but admits that merely competing at the championships - for which friends have contributed towards the £1,500 cost for travel and accommodation - is an achievement itself.

John, 37, of Darlington is a member of the well-respected British Weightlifting Association and is immensely proud of his achievements.

"The championships have been a goal for a year and a half and it's nice to think that I've reached it.

"For a sportsmen, representing your country is the highest accolade."

John flies out to New Zealand on the 2nd December and competes on the 9th.