POWERLIFTER Pat Tombs successfully defended her title at the British Drug-Free Powerlifting Championships, at Stafford University.

Pensioner Pat, who works and trains at Clacton’s Gallery and Fitness Gym, had kept her focus over the winter months, following her championship qualification in Bournemouth.

The first lift in the three disciplines was the squat and she delivered with an effort of 67.5kg.

This was followed by an acceptable 40kg bench press.

Tombs then opened with an 85kg deadlift, raising the bar to 90kg, and she attempted a new British record of 100kg, which was not to be on the final lift of the competition.

Tombs was relieved to hear she had retained her prized British title, with best in her category and best in her class, masters trophy, for the second year running. This achievement provided the ideal 68th birthday present.

Coach David Gunning said: “Pat produced a consistent performance throughout the championship and unequivocally asserted her position as the number one female masters powerlifter, in the country.”