A bodybuilder from Northern Ireland has died less than 24 hours after competing in the World Championships in Malta.

Jim Henderson from Carrickfergus is understood to have passed away in his hotel room on Sunday evening less than 24 hours after competing in the Championships.

It has been reported that he had just returned from having a meal with his daughter for Father's Day.

On Saturday the 54-year-old posted a photo of himself holding his trophy after the Championship.

He wrote: "Just finished world championships in Malta, 6th in the world! Thanks to everyone who supported me."

It was met with more than 50 comments of support and congratulations.

The National Amateur Body-Builders Association Northern Ireland passed on their condolences to the family.

It said: "It's with great sadness to share the news that Jim Henderson passed away this weekend. Jim had just competed and placed 6th at the World's.

"The news comes as a great shock to everyone & my thoughts & sincerest condolences are with his family & friends at this sad time."

There were many tributes on Facebook to the bodybuilder describing him as an "absolute gentleman".

One said: "Very sad to hear this this morning. A real gent and a smile for everyone, he'll be sadly missed."

A spokeswoman for Bombardier where he worked as a senior logistics agent said: "We are shocked and saddened by Jim’s sudden death and our thoughts are with his family."

A statement on behalf of the Henderson family said: "It is with unparalleled sadness that we have learned of the passing of James, a loving husband and father.

"James passed away in Malta where he had been competing in the world body building championships, representing Northern Ireland.

"While we deal with this devastating news, we the Henderson family and wider family circle, would respectfully request we are given the appropriate time and privacy to do so," they told Belfast Live.

Belfast Telegraph