WALES’ strongest man put in another inspiring performance over the weekend, finishing as runner-up in a competition involving some of the world's best.

Ben 'Badger' Brunning, from Bala, has held the title of Wales' Strongest Man for the last three years.

Over the weekend, he competed in the Giants Live World Strongest Man Tour Finals in Manchester and overcame the odds, placing second with only Poland's Mateusz Kieliszkowski pipping him to the title.

Denbighshire Free Press:

PICTURE: Ben 'Badger' Brunning AKA Wales' Strongest Man.

Finishing as runner-up means he has now qualified for the prestigious 2020 World's Strongest Man tournament - becoming the first Welshman to compete there since Gary Taylor in 1995.

Ben said: "I was invited to Manchester last minute and I wanted to test myself against the big boys. Turned out I came second.

"I was only there to see where I matched up against the best in the world but my performance its filled me with the confidence to chase that gold at Britain and World tournaments."

The 30-year-old's efforts drew praise and congratulations from giants of the sport such as Eddie Hall, Laurence Shahlaei and Graham Hicks.

Ben is now set to compete at another World Championship event in Florida in November after a GoFundMe page helped him raise the £1,500 needed to cover the cost of flights, accommodation and his entry fee.

Ben added: "I Just want to say how overwhelmed I am at the response I’ve received. I’m mega chuffed and I’ve been overwhelmed with messages.

“This is a massive accomplishment for me and will put Wales on the map.”