Burnley bodybuilder's dream debut

Joanne Commons (40) came first in the category for “Lady in First Year” at the Mr and Miss County Durham bodybuilding event.

Joanne was encouraged to enter by her personal trainer Jamie Kennedy, of FX Fitness.

As a result, she qualified for the IBFA British finals in which she recently finished in fourth place and just missed out on qualifying for the international finals in Rome.

She said: “I am so pleased to get the result I got for my first ever competition and the journey has been tough at times.

“I am now ready for a bit of a relax and hoping to achieve my goal of getting through to the internationals next year.”

Jamie said: “In October, shortly after Jo’s honeymoon she decided she wanted to get back on track with her diet and training.

“Late last year Jo wanted to set herself a new challenge. We both agreed it would be great to get in the sort of shape bikini athletes were in.

“As a personal trainer, Jo’s story is a brilliant example of consistency and knowing your body.

“I personally want to thank Joanne for her commitment, trust and consistency over the past six months and I look forward to working on the next level to see what she can achieve next.”