TALK about beefed up security! Superfit security guard Richard Onyeji is through to the final of a male modelling contest.

Richard, 37, of Brempsons, Basildon, is hoping to win the title of Mister Supernational, which aims to find the UK’s most physically fit and stylish man.

Married Richard, a former Echo security guard, will be travelling to Cardiff, Wales, on August 6 to compete against other finalists at the famous Coal Exchange venue.

The winner of the contest will receive a £500 cash prize, a modelling contract, as well as national newspaper and TV coverage.

Richard, who works out at Fitness First on Festival Leisure Park, Basildon, four times a week, said: “I am still working as a security guard at the moment and do some part time modelling, but I want to become a personal trainer and winning the contest would give me a lot of exposure to do that.

“I’m thrilled to be in the final.”

Richard will have to impress the judges by modelling swimwear and evening gear as well as strutting his stuff down the catwalk.