A Wiltshire bodybuilder has overcome bullying and a severe eating disorder to finish on the podium at her first competition.

Lilli Harvey, from Malmesbury, comes from a sporty family and her mum Charlene Harvey is a retired professional bodybuilder, who won several trophies.

But despite support from her family, Lilli was diagnosed with a severe eating disorder triggered by bullying in 2023, which led to her having a negative body image and dissatisfaction with her appearance, and her family were surprised by the diagnosis. 

In July, she was the youngest participant in the Pure Elite Bikini Model 17-23 years category in Manchester.

And her confident presentation of poses helped her to secure the second place achievement, meaning she has earned a pro athlete status and an invitation to the Pure Elite World Championships in November.

Throughout many challenges, Lilli remained determined to achieve her goals and overcome her mental health and bullying.

She told her mum: “I want to compete and be on stage like you did. I want to show people that although there is no fix for mental health, there are ways to manage it and live with it, especially with the support networks available and family.”

After the competition, Lilli said: “I am so glad I have done this. It has really marked a turning point for me. Second place is awesome, but being on stage in front of hundreds of spectators and feeling confident in my body was fantastic.

“I can’t wait to do it all again and see how well I can do against the experienced pro athletes at the World Finals.”

Charlene won prizes at competitions including the Pure Elite World Championships, and also runs her own sportswear business.

Lilli's brother Louis is a racing driver with two national karting championships and motorsports accolades and dad Chris is the Watch Manager at Malmesbury Fire Station and has helped raise thousands for charity.

Chris Harvey: “As a family we never imagined our daughter had been suffering until the signs became very obvious and even then it took a lot to accept it and find ways to help her.”

Following her success at the weekend, Lilli is now looking forward to competing again on August 10 in Wales and later this year on November 9 in High Wycombe for the Pure Elite World Championships.