Beefcake contest after fake tan truce

Bronzed bodybuilders will be strutting their stuff in a beefcake contest this weekend after a truce was called in a row over the mess left behind by their fake tan.

The International Open Pro-Am Oscar Awards, is being held at Brierley Hill Civic Hall on Sunday. There were fears that bodybuilding contests would be outlawed at the hall after fake tan was left smeared on walls and seats following a show last year.

Organiser Jim Charles said the mess could not be avoided but has promised to do his best to clear up after Sunday's contest, which is expected to attract around 500 people.

He said: "There is nothing you can do about it really, it will be a mess because that is the way it is, but I will be there clearing up afterwards." Five times Mr Universe champion Eddie Ellwood will be attending the bash, the qualifier for the Mr Britain competition.

The show will also be an anniversary bash for organiser Jim Charles who has been helping men and women get into shape at Jim's Gym for half a century.

Despite having celebrated his 69th birthday he's not planning to retire any time soon and has lined up a series of anniversary shows to mark the mammoth milestone.

He has even invited Arnold Schwarznegger, governor of California, to the event.

He said: "I haven't had a reply yet, but he has been known to just turn up at shows in the past without warning anyone." Arnie competed in front of Jim in the Mr Universe contests in the 60s and the two became friends.

Jim's Gym started out as a 'physical culture club' at the old Wordsley Institute in Wordsley High Street in 1958 before moving to an old school building in Chapel Street, Lye, where it has remained for the last 43 years.

Around 18 months ago the bodybuilders' spot was left a burnt out shell after being hit by arsonists. But he has fought back and the gym is now back up and running.

And father-of-two Jim now has three anniversary shows lined up this year at Brierley Hill Civic Hall.

Two further celebratory shows are also planned for September 21 and October 26.

Tickets for the Pro-Am cost £15 and are available from Jim on 01384 892976.