AN ancient stone of strength was lifted to shoulder height for the second time in living memory during the annual challenge in Criccieth over the weekend.

Mark Jeanes, who was crowned the strongest man in Wales last year, became the first to raise the legendary 28-stone (177.5 kilograms) Y Maen Camp (The Feat Stone), to shoulder height (level 3) last year and has now successfully completed the lift for the second time at this year’s event.

The Stone is mentioned in David Lloyd George’s biography, The Mask of Merlin as being a Test Your Strength Stone.

The stone is said to have inspired the Welsh Prime Minister, who grew up in Llanywstumdwy, to enter politics.

There was also another world record at the event which went to Reuben Hughes, of Morfa Nefyn, who held 7.4 kilograms for 31 seconds in the pick axe lever to rear event. Reuben also broke ground (level 1) in the Stone of Strength challenge.

Female competitor Pat Coward, in the over 60s category, also held 2.45 kilograms for 11 seconds in the pick axe lever to rear event.

See the full story and more pictures in this week’s Arfon/Dwyfor edition of the Cambrian News