LEIGH Wetheridge was delighted to re-write the record books on her way to securing a silver medal at the Arnold Classic Europe weightlifting competition.

The former Westcliff High School for Girls pupil travelled to Barcelona for the event, which was eagerly-contested and saw Great Britain fair particularly well.

Wetheridge broke a number of records and was pleased to finish in second place.

“It was great to win a silver medal because I really didn’t expect it,” admitted Wetheridge.

“I got four European records and broke seven British records as well.

“I also attempted the world record, but I just missed out on that one.”

Wetheridge achieved a great meet, which totalled 27kg more than she achieved at the recent British Women’s Classic.

After opening with 180kg on the squat, the Eastwood-based weightlifter hit 200kg on her third attempt.

Wetheridge’s impressive effort allowed her to break the 84kg+ European junior record.

On the bench, Wetheridge hit 115kg on her third try.

She also recorded an impressive attempt of 227.5kg on her second shot at the deadlift, which was a huge achievement as only a handful of women have been able to match that effort.

The impressive try was also only 10.5kg off LeeAnn Hewitt’s current open world record of 238kg in the 84kg+ class.

Eager to break another record in Spain, Wetheridge took a stab with 238.5kg on the bar, on her third attempt, but just missed out.

Fellow Great Britain representatives Emma Goodwin and Becky Heath also performed admirably as they claimed third and fourth place respectively.

Camille Holland, another British competitor, impressed as she beat the 84kg+ European squat.

Wetheridge, who has now represented her country on the international stage on numerous occasions, is aware that it will not be easy to maintain her high standards as she changes categories.

Wetheridge said: “This is my last year as a junior competitor.

“Next year I will go up to the next category, which is for those aged between 24 and 40.

“That will be even more competitive and I know it will be difficult, but it is just a case of me competing and doing my best.”