A CHAMPION Barry bodybuilder in the making savoured his first taste of success - then devoured an entire box of 12 Krispy Kreme doughnuts!

Dave Paige, who put himself on a strict dietary regime to perfect his physique ahead of his first contest this month, finished fourth in the UK Body Building & Fitness Federation (UK BFF) Welsh Championships in Port Talbot.

And he celebrated by ditching the eggs and lean meat protein - and heading straight for the tastier stuff!

The 24-year-old Health & Herbs assistant and nutritional adviser also scoffed Dominos pizza, garlic bread, chicken dunkers and strippers, plus three whole tubs of Ben & Jerry's ice-cream!

Dave, of Pencoedtre, said: "I was ill, very ill and then I fell asleep!"

The middle-weight bodybuilder had for 12 weeks prior to the competition eaten seven to eight muscle-building meals a day. Then just before the big day, he had to deprive himself of water for 27 hours, taking only sips of liquid, in order to define his veins.

During competition, before going on stage, the bodybuilders had to lie down to keep their bodies cool - and Dave said he was very impressed at how friendly his fellow competitors were, despite contending with dehydration. "I can't wait to do another competition - I've got the big for it now!" he said.

"It was a great atmosphere and everyone was very positive and gave me lots of good advice.

"I have got a lot of respect for the guys. They have been doing it for ten to 15 years and I've only been training for two years.

"I was quite emotional afterwards!"

Dave thanked Barry soldier Josh Hicks, Huw Lane, and dad Laurence Paige for licking him into competitive shape.