SOME of the region’s strongest men and women will compete in Durham City next month.

The Yorkshire and North East Benchpress Championships will be held at Durham Amateur Rowing Club’s boathouse in Green Lane, on Saturday November 3 between 11am and 2pm.

Almost 30 lifters, men and women aged 17 to 70 , will bid to be a regional champion and to qualify for the British Championships.

Prince Bishop River Cruises is sponsoring the event and the prizes will be presented by managing director Jamie Robson.

Admission is free and doors open at 10.30am The promoters are Durham Powerlifters who have an international pedigree with many world , European and national medals to their name.

Powerlifters chairman Jim Dulling said: “The competition is a showcase event and attracts a substantial following. “The Durham Powerlifters are running a number of courses that aim to introduce powerlifting to all who have an interest. These are being run at the rowing club.”

During the event people will be to try their hand at rowing under the supervision of qualified coaches. For further information call Mr Dulling on 0191-386 838 or e-mail durhampowerlifting@hotmail.co.uk