A muscle man who grew up in Bow and has won a contract with a global sports company is hoping to return to schools in his old neighbourhood to inspire a new generation of athletes.

Darrell Rabess, 27, has been signed up as a sports model by agency LA Muscle after six years training, during which time he worked as a fitness instructor in Canary Wharf.

Despite having moved away from the East End six years ago, Darrell wants to give something back to the children of his old school, St Agnes Primary, and others across Tower Hamlets. He says he is looking to volunteer in schools to raise awareness among children of the need for a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

“I grew up in the area and it would have helped me to have a positive role model in the health industry”, he said.

“I want to give something back to the community I am originally from. I hope I can have a positive influence with the kids.”

In the meantime, Darrell will continue training ahead of his first major fitness modelling competition. He is set to be filmed throughout the gruelling regime before testing his mettle in Hertfordshire this April.