IN 1968, the former YMCA building in Greengate Street was transformed into a revolutionary new gym that would lead the way for Cumbria's body building community.

A Barrow shipyard tradesman, Bill Hemsworth made the decision to open the gym due to his fascination with physical fitness.

STRONG: Bodybuilders John Littlehales, Sandra Birkett and Lee Harrison at Furness Health Studio in 1991

STRONG: Bodybuilders John Littlehales, Sandra Birkett and Lee Harrison at Furness Health Studio in 1991

Hemsworth craved a ready-made facility for his love of bodybuilding – and so Furness Health Studio was born.

Hours and hours of dedication in that gym would transform Hemsworth into a world-renowned bodybuilder, and also help many of his proteges become champions.

FITNESS: Furness Health Studio girls getting ready for the 1989 Mr and Miss Cumbria show

FITNESS: Furness Health Studio girls getting ready for the 1989 Mr and Miss Cumbria show

Hemsworth led by example, winning Mr Universe and several Mr Britain titles, and rubbing shoulders with superstars like Arnold Scwarzenegger along the way.

He established the Mr and Miss Cumbria competitions in the mid-1980s and inspired hundreds to take up bodybuilding.