Reigning world champion power-lifting Martin Green won gold at the European Bench Press Championships for the fourth successive year, in Italy last week.

The Didcot star, competing in the 90kg class, lifted 212.5kg on his opening lift.

But he failed in his attempt to lift 217.5kg, which would have extended his own world record of 216kg.

He still finished well ahead of the field as the runner-up managed only 200kg.

Green, who has held the world title for three years, said: "I was a bit disappointed as I have lifted 227.5kg in training, but I think the loss of body weight affected my lifting.

"I am considering lifting in the 100kg bodyweight class in my next competition."

Green trains at Flex Gym in Newbury and the Willowbrook Leisure Centre in Didcot and is sponsored by LA Muscle.