WE shared the news that a man from Carlisle finished third in his debut appearance at a national bodybuilding competition last weekend. 

Demis Selmes was recently crowned Mr Cumbria in the over 45s category at a bodybuilding event in Workington, which saw him qualify for a national event.

On Sunday, October 22, he travelled to Newcastle for the IBFA British Finals, where five months of intense training and dieting would culminate in an impressive third-placed finish. 

Here's how readers reacted.

One web user said: "Fair play man. I could never cut out food like that though."

Niamh Stephenson said: "Well done ignore the miserable comments, some people don’t like to see the people of Cumbria do good."

David Somerville added: "Amazing physique well done," and Mal Snape said: "Well done that man, respect."

Billy Robinson commented: "Really well done."

Ray Torley said: "Brilliant write up mate. Hope you enjoyed your cheese on toast."

Grace Wordsworth commented: "Congratulations a true guy from Cumberland."

Christine Carnochan said his achievement was 'fabulous' and Mark Coulson said: "Absolute congratulations deserve it my friend I know how hard it is."

Rachael Thomson, Colin McCandlish, Michael Trotter and Laura Pearty Seaton also congratulated Demis.

Bodybuilding has always been a dream of Demis', with his father still going to the gym every day at the age of 82, but now was the right time for him to finally pursue his passion.

With the help of trainer Niki Chisty, Demis took home trophies from both of his first events.