May's 88 and as fit as a fiddle

She has a replacement hip and knee and is 88, but that does not stop May Douglas from being a proper gym bunny.

May uses her mobility scooter to get from her home to Bannatyne's gym in Dodworth five times a week where she joins in aqua fit and tai chi classes.

She says not only does the regular exercise keep her feeling young, but the many friends she has made amongst staff and members has been a life saver.

"You are never too old and everyone can do something. Whatever people's age they should give it a try, it has

completely changed my life."

May, of Strafford Walk, Dodworth, joined Bannatyne's with her husband Robert, but says it was after his death five years ago that the gym really began to play a vital part of her life.

"If I didn't come here I would be stuck at home staring out of the window. But instead I have a regular routine and when I get here so many people know me and talk to me that I never feel lonely, everyone here so kind - it's quite lovely," she said.

May is such an institution at the gym that staff and members mark her birthday and even check on her well being if he fails to turn up for her classes or the weather is bad.

Bannatyne's manager Mel Weatherhead said: "Everyone thinks the world of May and we do keep a eye on her and her welfare because she is such a wonderful lady. She is an absolute inspiration to people of all ages."