Barker bids to be top of the world

A South Holland powerlifter will be heading to Coventry next week to take part in a world championship event.
Harry Barker trains hard and hopes to take the title when he takes part in the International Powerlifting League (IPL) competition on October 19.
The week-long contest features different categories within the sport over five days at the Royal Court Hotel.
The 23-year-old already has the British and Commonwealth records in powerlifting for his category – 75kg juniors – and has his sights firmly set on the world championships.
“Last year it was held in the USA and I could not take part, but as it’s in Coventry I can and I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
As well as training at Royals Gym, Holbeach, Barker works in the family business, Simon Barker Services, based in Pinchbeck, and also offers personal training with Barker Fitness.
“After this competition, I will take a look at body building, rather than powerlifting,” he said.
“It is different, but something I would like to try.”
Powerlifting has three categories – squat, bench and deadlift – while bodybuilding concentrates on creating muscle mass and minimal body fat.
Barker attended The Deepings School and is also a trainer at the Pure Gym Boston branch, where he leads a variety of classes.
The IPL was created by lifters within the sport and has representation in a number of countries and is the governing body responsible for international competitions.