BREAKING a world record was a “surreal” experience for powerlifter Tian Peacock.

The 23-year-old from Penryn broke the bench press mark in the 60kg category during the BDFPA Championships held in Stafford on Saturday.

His lift of 107.5kg helped finish first in his class and means he will now participate at the World Championships in Italy on October 30.

Reflecting on his achievement, Peacock who trains at St Michael’s Hotel in Falmouth said it is still sinking in.

Peacock said: “It was all a bit surreal and overwhelming really.

“I still had other lifts to do after my bench press, so I had try and focus on those, which was hard.

“Before I went to the competition I had a look at the previous records and saw a few were near my limits and I thought I might be able to grab one.

“That said, I wasn’t really planning on getting one, but I am delighted to have done so.”

Having only started training a year ago with renowned lifter Justin Walker, Peacock said he is really looking forward to the Worlds in Italy later this year.

“It will be great to go abroad and do what I enjoy doing,” he said.

“I’m not sure what it is going to be like as it will be my first time competing at that level and I don’t know whether people will look at me differently as I’m a world record holder now.

“But I’m sure it will be a lot of fun and I cannot wait to fly out there.”

Ahead of the World Championships, Peacock is looking for individuals or companies who would be interested in sponsoring him.

For more information, call 07791 493490.