Proving age is no barrier to exercise a 79-year-old pensioner has been named regional member of the month at a Sudbury sports centre.

Olive D’Cruz visits Vale Farm Sports Centre in Watford Road every day with out fail.

The inspirational grandmother of two who lives in nearby Harrow was diagnosed with arthritis in 2007 and found herself in a lot of pain, and on heavy medication.

Not one to give up the former nurse upped her attendance at the leisure centre, determined to stay active.

She said: “I attend up to nine classes in a normal week including pilates, body pump and aerobics.

“I honestly think if I didn’t keep myself moving, my arthritis would mean I wouldn’t be able to walk or get upstairs.”

Praising Vale Farm staff for keeping her so motivated Mrs D’Cruz added: “They are incredibly supportive and always help me with my posture and form. The fact that they give you special attention helps me exercise safely and my arthritis is so much better now.

“I would like to say a special thank you to all the staff.”

Chris Williams, Everyone Active general manager, said: “We were delighted that Olive was awarded the Regional Member of the Month. She is an inspiration to both members and staff at the centre, and proof that age is most definitely not a barrier to exercise.”

Cllr Krupesh Hirani, cabinet member for community wellbeing, at Brent Council, said: “Olive is an inspiration. It’s great to see that her arthritis did not deter her from keeping active and shows that no matter your age or ability exercise should be built into your daily routine.

“ ‘My heart beats for Brent’ is a new campaign inspired by the many active residents who already demonstrate a real affection for the facilities; classes; parks; open spaces and clubs in Brent and Olive’s experiences are an example of this.

“For more information about the campaign visit brent.gov.uk/heartbeats”

Vale Farm Sports Centre is operated by Everyone Active in partnership with Brent Council.

For more information call the centre on 0208 908 6545 or visit everyoneactive.com