A LOCAL bodybuilder has qualified to represent Great Britain at the 2027 IBFA Mr Universe competition.

Matthew White’s performance at the IBFA GB Barnsley Colliery Classic at Harborough Hills Social Pub earned him qualification for the international event, adding another milestone to a coaching career already recognised within natural bodybuilding.

He is the coach of natural bodybuilding star Ed Akay, who is the son of Barnsley author KJ Akay.

Ed encouraged White to compete in the Barnsley Colliery Classic, believing the town’s significance in his personal history would prove to be a good omen.

He will continue competing across the UK this season before travelling to Italy next year to represent Great Britain at the 2027 IBFA Mr Universe.

Kyle Vice, of the Barnsley Colliery Classic, said: “Looking at the condition Matthew brought to the stage at the Barnsley Colliery Classic, in both classes he did, was nothing short of outstanding.

“He has a confident stage presence in both his I-walk and compulsory rounds and I could tell Matthew had worked hard to bring the condition he had that day.

“Matthew has great potential to go further in this sport and will be a strong competitor in the physique category.

“It was a pleasure to have him on stage at my show and an even greater pleasure to hand him his invite to compete for the Universe title in Italy.”