A Wantage bodybuilder is riding high after representing Great Britain and finishing third at the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation finals in the United States.

Scott Jezzard, 36, finished third in the light heavyweight men’s open category for Great Britain at the world event in Seattle.

He had qualified after a British finals event in October.

The bodybuilder committed himself to a strict 45-week training programme in preparation, shredding a total of 45 pounds in body fat.

Mr Jezzard said: “It was a dream come true just being asked to go.

"To qualify for the world finals and represent your country – there’s nothing better.

Oxford Mail: Mr Jezzard committed himself to a strict 45 week training programme to get in to top shape for the"It was a hugely enjoyable experience, a very team oriented one too, travelling abroad with fellow Team GB members.

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“This was my 24th competition. This is all done drug free and tested via urine and polygraph.

"Without drugs it’s a much slower process and there’s no key secret. You just train very hard.”

He first joined the gym for self-development at the age of 22 and has been participating in competitions for the last 10 years.

Oxford Mail: Mr Jezzard plans to compete again in 2025Mr Jezzard added: “It took a few years before someone commented on my progress and suggested competing.

“I don’t plan to compete next until at least 2025 and this is dependent on remaining injury free.

"You have to take time away from a prolonged calorie deficit.

"It takes a hell of a lot of time, energy and effort to be lean enough to get onto the stage."

Unlike many fellow competitors, Mr Jezzard was not sponsored by any company or organisation and funded the trip himself.

He added: "All the guys at the finals are fully frug tested and id like nothing more than to motivate and inspire young guys and girls who aren’t sure of what can be achieved without drugs.

"I am an example that if you eat clean, train hard for many years and stay consistent, you can get on stage without drugs and have a fantastic world class level physique."