WORCESTER powerlifter Larry Whyte has got medals on his mind as he prepares to bid farewell to the sport at the end of this month.

The 50-year-old grandfather will be taking part in the European Drugs Free Singles Powerlifting Championship in Hogan, Switzerland, and is hoping to bring the curtain down on his career with more records and medals.

Whyte recently enjoyed a great deal of success at the World Drug Free Powerlifting Championships in Australia, returning home with not only four gold medals, but also two world records.

He claimed gold in the unequipped bench press, lifting 147kg, and the unequipped deadlift, hoisting a huge 270kg. He also lifted an impressive 265kg in the equipped dead lift.

In addition to all these achievements, he was named as the Bench Press Endurance Champion.

What makes Whyte's haul even more impressive is that he only recently returned to powerlifting after a 15-year absence. He first dabbled in the sport in his mid-30s, but gave up when he reached 40.

One of the main reasons for his return to the sport was when the British Drugs Free Singles Powerlifting Association got in touch and asked him to start competing again, which triggered a meteoric rise.

After returning to competitive action, he quickly became the British Masters Champion, breaking two British records as well as a European record. Shortly afterwards, he was victorious closer to home, being crowned Midlands Masters Champion at the same time as taking another world record.

And now, having decided to make the European Championships his last event, Whyte is looking to go out on a high note. However, Whyte plans to stay close to the powerlifting world after his retirement.

He said: "Afterwards I will be concentrating on getting my personal training up and running.

"Anyone who is interested can find out more information by reading my blog at: larrywhyteblogspot.com."

Whyte has attracted several offers of sponsorship for the European Championships, but any further offers would be gratefully received and he can be contacted on 07828-488533 or 01386-442097.