FORGET boxing, wrestling and martial arts - one of the biggest growing sports in Bolton is the ancient art of arm wrestling.

And aficionados of the sport will be able to watch many of the best local arm wrestlers in action at the Northern Armwrestling Federation's novice arm wrestling championship - Iron Arm North West.

According to sport insiders, arm wrestling is a growing sport across the world.

While in Britain over the past five years the Northern branch of the sport has grown into the strongest and best organised body for the sport in the country.

Indeed Lancashire are currently British novice team champions and the professional team boasts some of the biggest names in the world including Ladies British and European champion Elaine Pickup.

Over 150 competitors from across the region - including several from Bolton - will be trying their arms in the championships which take place at The Gamebird in Chorley on Saturday, October 14 and Saturday, October 21.

Admission for spectators is £1 and for competitors £5. Weigh ins take place between 7 and 8pm on October 14.

Anyone wishing to find out more about this growing sport should ring Neil on 01254 701784 or 703203.

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