Radcliffe physiotherapist Kurt Lievesley put his muscles and strength to the test to clinch success in a military competition.

The 22-year-old's team from the physiotherapy department at Rochdale infirmary walked away as heat champions of the Greater Manchester Mini Hospital Challenge.

Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, budget managers, healthcare assistants and porters were among those who took part in the event which was organised by 207 (Manchester) Field Hospital (Volunteers), a TA medical unit based at Bury's Castle Armoury Drill Hall and other centres across the region.

Seven teams of healthcare professionals were put through their paces on a range of physical and mental tests at Halton training Camp, near Lancaster.

Kurt's team won with runners-up being a team of biomedical scientists from Royal Preston Hospital.

Both teams now go forward with the winners and runners-up from a previous heat, the Accident and Emergency Department at Royal Bolton Hospital and paediatrics department at Royal Preston Hospital, to take part in a finals event against TA soldiers in December.

Colonel Deepak Bhatnagar, Commanding Officer, 207 (Manchester) Field Hospital, said: "The Hospital Challenge gives us an ideal opportunity to show NHS employers and staff the many benefits that the TA Army Medical Services have to offer in terms of leadership skills, initiative, team spirit, self-confidence and fitness training.

"These qualities will inevitably complement the existing professional skills of individuals and play a significant part in improving both their overall performance and effectiveness."