Master upholsterer and world champion power lifter, Ger Mac Namara, embarks on two challenges:

Firstly to repair a rare and collapsed 18th century 'Bellamy' couch and, secondly, in the same period, attempt to break a world power lifting record.

We listen in, as Ger balances the finer details of his restoration work in his Limerick workshop with the demanding regime that's required to remain as one of the world's greatest power lifters.

The Upholsterers trade is a dying one and true craftsmen are becoming more and more difficult to find. Ger Mac Namaras' customers travel from across the country.

In this programme we meet his eclectic mix of regulars and his loyal band of admirers. And are invited into his sporting life as he attempts to break a world record.

With deadlines and targets to meet, what evolves is a universal story rich in local colour and accent.

Compiled and narrated by Michael O'Kane
Sound Supervision by Phil Cooke
Production Supervision by Liam O'Brien

An Irish radio documentary from RTÉ Radio 1, Ireland - Documentary on One - the home of Irish radio documentaries