A city mum has channelled the grief of losing her brother into a remarkable transformation to get into "the best shape of her life".

Norwich's April Compaan said she was once "adverse to exercise" but will take to the bodybuilding stage on July 2 clad in just a bikini to show off her impressive form.

After losing Joe in July 2021, the 33-year-old inherited her brother's weights and never thought she'd be able to lift them.

Norwich Evening News: Joe Compaan died in July 2021 of an alcohol-related accident which inspired April to get in shape in his memoryJoe Compaan died in July 2021 of an alcohol-related accident which inspired April to get in shape in his memory (Image: April Compaan)

But now, April has gone from strength to strength as she challenged herself to ditch unhealthy grieving habits like drinking to channel her emotion through exercise.

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"I was really lost in my grief, it's hard to navigate," the mum-of-two said.

"I drank for a while but it got to a point where I knew I needed to be better for myself.

Norwich Evening News: April in the gym with personal trainer Charlie DaviesApril in the gym with personal trainer Charlie Davies (Image: April Compaan)

"I started going to the gym in October and didn't think I'd stick it out.

"But I noticed a huge improvement in my mental health.

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"I didn't expect to feel so good."

Norwich Evening News: April before starting her transformation and now as she prepares for her competitionApril before starting her transformation and now as she prepares for her competition (Image: April Compaan)

April - who also makes jewellery from loved ones' ashes and other sentimental items - then realised her positive coping strategy fueled her need for a bigger challenge, so she joined Velocity Strength and Fitness in Marsham, near Aylsham, and enlisted the help of personal trainer Charlie Davies.

She documents her transformation on Instagram as well as paying tribute to her brother, with children Cara, 14, and Dylan, 11, and her mum Sally Bennett always keen to cheer her on.

Norwich Evening News: April and Joe as childrenApril and Joe as children (Image: April Compaan)

During her training, April has raised £600 for the Mental Health Foundation in memory of Joe, who died aged 31 of an alcohol-related accident.

April added: "This is helping me move forward. Joe will not be forgotten.

Norwich Evening News: April's proud children Cara and DylanApril's proud children Cara and Dylan (Image: April Compaan)

"He set me on this path. I carry him with me every day.

"I'm so proud of myself. I'm now in the best shape of my life."