THE new Mr Wigan swept the board in his first body-building competition, then went on to beat Mr World the following week.

Phil Carlon, of Grimshaw Street, Golborne, took home seven trophies after taking part in the Wigan Physique Show, held at Mr Earl's, in Higher Ince.

The 38-year-old has been training on and off since he was 20, but picked-up the pace since becoming a house-husband six years ago.

He said: "I usually go and watch the shows, but I always get an itch to enter, so last year I decided I was going to do it next time -- and I have."

Phil entered three categories, First Timers, Novices and Mr Wigan. He took first place and most muscular in all three, he also won the Sean Scully Memorial Trophy for most muscular in show.

Phil's success continued, with him beating the current Mr World, Paul Sutton, and taking first place at the Mike Ahern Fitness 2001 Classic Mister competition the following week.

Phil trains five or six times a week at Body Talk, in Ashton-In-Makerfield, and now has seven months to prepare for the Mr North West and Mr Britain contests next May.

"I might as well give it a stab and see what happens," he said. "I'll always regret it if I don't."

Phil hopes to continue competing, but looking at it practically, realises it will be an expensive feat.

He said: "Really I can't progress to the level I hope to get to without sponsorship. I have to have a high-protein diet and eat five or six times a day, so the meals alone are expensive."

Anyone interested in sponsoring Phil can e-mail him at philip.carlon@talk21.com