A Maidstone model who performed as a dancer at a bodybuilding challenge last year was so inspired she became a bodybuilder – and won at this year's contest.

Kate Errington, of Alexandra Street, Maidstone - who is also a burlesque dancer, stilt walker and fire eater - danced at 2013's Hercules Olympia.

But the 25-year-old was so impressed by the female participants she opted to change her diet, fitness regime and shape as her ambition took hold.

In just 11 weeks, she trained hard at Ironworks Gym in Park Wood, Maidstone, and dropped two dress sizes - although her weight remained the same.

She then entered the contest, held at Charter Hall in Colchester, and won both categories she entered – bikini and model beauty.

Miss Errington, who also runs her own dance school, the Katie Jane Dance Academy in Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey, said: "It was literally the hardest thing I have ever done.

"I performed at the event last year and I thought it was inspiring to see the people who'd built their bodies up.

“I have never done this before in my life and set myself the goal to enter as a personal challenge. Aside from being a dancer, I had never set foot in a gym.

"To say I am pleased is an understatement. I am thrilled, ecstatic, overjoyed and cannot stop grinning."

In the bikini category, she beat off competition from 29 other girls.

She added: "I am so proud of what I have achieved and in such a small time frame.

"It is proof that with hard work, determination and willpower, anything is possible and anyone can do it. I hope I did England proud."