A local strongman beat thousands of fellow runners when he took on one of Europe’s most gruelling challenges over the bank holiday weekend.

Personal trainer Stuart Amory, 35, of West Molesey, tackled 15 miles and 15 obstacles made from reinforced steel to rank an astonishing 22nd place out of 10,000 at the Fisherman’s Friend Strongman Run in Nurburg, Germany.

Mr Amory secured an impressive two hour 10 minute finish and competed for the third year in a row as captain of 11-man Team GB.

In the ultimate test of strength, stamina and determination, runners face an array of difficult obstacles, including plunging into a pool of ice cold water, suffering electric shocks and braving swamps of quicksand.

Mr Amory said: “It was by far one of the toughest courses yet – the track was longer, the obstacles were bigger, and the competition was stiffer than ever. Ranking 22nd out of 10,000 is just incredible, I’m chuffed to have done Team GB proud.”