GEMMA TAYLOR has never felt so full of life, but she must wait a little longer to have a chance of being on top of the world.

Britain's Strongest Woman must defend her title before she can achieve her ambition to be the strongest woman in the world.

The 22-year-old European Cup holder, who left her Thirsk, North Yorkshire, home for Hartlepool to live near a gymnasium, competes in a showdown next month.

Bernie McKinley, a champion power lifter, and Julie Dunkley, the British Champion Shot Putter, have already confirmed they will be taking part in the contest at Ellwoods Fitness World, Hartlepool, on Sunday, April 23.

Ms Taylor said: "I am loving everything going on around me. I am so lucky, I get to go around the world.

"I gave up drinking, smoking and partying for a particular diet regimen and I have to have nine hours sleep every night. Everything has to be done by the book. And that has been my life for two years. It has been absolute, total dedication.

"I feel more feminine now than I have ever been. I have a feminine shape and have extra muscle, but with being on television, I have to keep looking glamorous."

Gemma, whose parents Ron and Myra, and sister Joanne, drive all over the UK to support her, is officially the second strongest woman in the world after Polish star Aneta Florcyzk.

Now she is aiming to be number one.