A PRIVATE bodyguard from Ringwood has gone from bodybuilding competition novice to world and UK champion in just 15 months.

Wesley Grant finished fourth in his first competition before going onto to earn professional status and claim first place in his category at the Pure Elite federation World Championship in November.

The 36-year-old backed this up last month with a win on the UK stage in both the pro male muscle model and overall male pro titles.

To reach the pinnacle of the bodybuilding world, Mr Grant has pushed himself through a gruelling training regime in balance with his work and family life.

In a "normal" week the six foot three inch 105kg bodyguard trains six times a week, while in the run up to competitions this is ramped up to two to three sessions every day.

"I made a decision in January last year that I wanted to compete after coming back from work with clients," he said.

"That was the start of my journey and it has all been a bit of whirlwind since then.

"I have always been quite a fit guy as a former Royal Marine, but I have worked with my coach and dedicated myself to it.

"To be honest the successes haven't really sunk in and remains a bit surreal for me. It hasn't hit home and it is a bit of weird feeling to be a world champion."

Mr Grant, who was born in South Africa, said diet has played a key role in his success. His coach Charlie Garforth manages his regime and food intake "right down to the single grain of rice".

After taking the bodybuilding scene by storm, the father of two, who has worked in security since he was 16, said he is looking to defend his titles and hoping to serve as a role model to others.

"To be able to serve as a fitness icon and influencer would be great. It gives me a real pleasure to help others.

"It would be nice to take it to the next level by helping people with their fitness, with a social media following where people know my name.