Gym really fixed it for body building couple David and Angela Thackray.

Bulging biceps drew the pair together when their eyes met across the busy gymnasium.

Now they are set to take on the best in Europe in the World Amateur Body Building Association's European Championship in Sicily.

The Guiseley couple will flex their massive muscles in individual and the mixed couple categories at the weekend after Angela claimed third place in the Miss UK championships and her husband took the Mr UK title at the WABBA's UK Championship earlier this year.

Angela, 34, an office worker at Booths Supermarkets, Ilkley, has been training for around eight years but only started competing a year ago. She said: "This is my very first competition so it's mind blowing that I've achieved so much in my first year.

"I went with my husband when he competed last year and felt tremendously proud of him."

David, 41, a wagon driver for a wholesale meat company, took part in last year's event but said he was looking forward to starring alongside his wife.

"I'm really looking forward to it. I couldn't believe it when we both qualified.

"It's also great that we can take part in a category together."

The pair, who reign as Mr and Miss South Coast, met at Johnny's Gym in Yeadon six years ago. They married last year and train together most nights.

"I think it gives us the advantage," said Angela. "We can give support and encouragement and we are comfortable with each other.

"My class is a bit more showy and glitzy so I've got to retain a feminine shape. I'll leave the major muscles to my husband!

"I'm looking forward to it. I'm very excited but also a little bit nervous because the standards are very, very high."

Angela is also thankful to staff at her workplace who forked out the money for her flight to Sicily.

"When work said they were going to pay for my flights I was absolutely ecstatic about it," she said. "I would have been more than happy with any help but this is just fantastic."

Booths store manager Atholl Robertson said: "We are all very proud of Angela's success here at Booths. It is such an achievement to compete at this level and we are all confident she will do well."