A Bradford hairdresser who became a successful bodybuilder after taking up the hobby for a bet is battling for the title of Miss Universe.

Sally Knights, 35, who rents a space at Beauty Works in Halifax Road, Wibsey , began a strict training regime two years ago after her bodybuilder former boyfriend bet her she would not have the courage to change her lifestyle and become a bodybuilding champion.

Since then, the hairdresser of 20 years has been declared Toned Figure Champion at last year’s Yorkshire Open, won Miss North East and this week started preparation for Miss Universe in November.

She said: “When someone tells me I can’t do something, it makes me even more determined to do it.

“It’s a big difference from my day job, but I think working as a hairdresser keeps me grounded.

“My clients get really into it, watching my body change each time they come for an appointment.

“One client was telling me she was shocked at how different I can look in a short space of time.”

Miss Knights, a former manager at Toni and Guy in Bradford city centre, stepped up her three-times-a-week gym regime to begin her bodybuilder training in February 2010.

“I used to do a lot of cardio, just going through the motions, not really knowing what I was doing,” she said.

“My ex-boyfriend competed in bodybuilding competitions and when I told him I could do that, he told me I wouldn’t have the bottle.

“From there, I started training properly at a bodybuilders’ gym, working on a different muscle every week. I couldn’t believe how quickly my body started to change.”

Miss Knights, of Buttershaw , has now adapted her diet in preparation for Miss Universe, eating seven times a day, and will begin a 13-week training regime shortly.

She said: “I can’t wait. I’ll be competing against girls from Brazil who have amazing bodies.

“I’m just looking to enjoy it and hoping I can get a top three place in Miss Great Britain, which is a week later.

“The fact I’ve been able to do this just shows how you can change your body if you want to. My clients are always texting me for tips!”