BODYBUILDERS from around the world lined up at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall when the Mr Universe contest returned to Britain’s second city - courtesy of an internationally famous gym boss from Lye.

Jim Charles, life president of the National Amateur Bodybuilders’ Association, and his wife Val - international secretary of NABBA - organised the event which made a return to Birmingham on October 29 after a 16-year break.

The event - attended by top musclemen and women from across the globe - was previously held at Southport.

Tony Mount, from Northern Ireland, won the ultimate NABBA Pro Mr Universe title and Jim, an international contest judge who runs Jim’s Gym in Lye, said: "It was unreal.

"We had well over 1,000 people there and that many teams turned up - from places including New Zealand, Korea and the Philippines."

The couple's next event will be the USN Novice Finals and British Youth Championships taking place at Brierley Hill Civic Hall on Sunday November 20.

The event gives up and coming stars of the sport a chance to shine. Doors open at noon and judging starts at 1pm.

For tickets or more details go to www.nabba.co.uk or call Val or Jim Charles on 01384 898578.