A BARRHEAD man’s latest world record has been officially recognised as he raises money for a cause close to his heart.

Prolific world record setter William Cannon drew on all his strength to complete a full leg press with the heaviest amount of weights ever used by one person.

He recently achieved a 1,120kg leg press using both legs, as well as successfully pushing 410kg with only his right leg and 400kg with his left leg.

Now the 54-year-old’s efforts have been officially recognised by Record Holders Republic.

He has already set more than 600 records, having spent the last 15 years tackling various fitness, strength and endurance challenges to raise cash for DEBRA, which supports people affected by the skin disorder Epidermolysis Bullosa.

William told the Barrhead News: “This challenge is really a test of strength and hopefully it will raise enormous amounts of money for the charity.

“You will see some guys claiming fame on YouTube but they are doing calf raises, which is basically three-inch movements.

“I felt calf raises wouldn’t raise as much money, so I went with the full press, which is a full extension of the legs.

“My application to the world governing body for the machine leg press was successful and now I have the best leg press of our modern times.

“The world record was for all weight divisions.”

To prepare for his latest challenge, William underwent a six-month training regime at the Anytime Fitness gym, in Clarkston.

He said: “We did overload the leg press machine, as it only takes about 850kg, but if you want a world record, you’ve got to be willing to take some risks.

“This is my 629th world record.”

Later this year, William plans to complete a non-stop, 300-hour stationary cycle, after completing a stationary cycle for 186 hours in March this year.