'It's not the typical sport to start in your 40s'

The steeplechase includes jumping over water

A hairdresser who started running later in life is now a world record-breaking steeplechase runner in her age range.

Kirstie Booth, 46, who lives near Wellington in Somerset, said health problems in her late 30s made her rethink what she could do and decide it was time "to get on with it".

She now races competitively across the world in the steeplechase athletics race for over 35s (Masters) - where runners tackle an obstacle course on a running track.

The obstacles include fixed barriers and jumps across water.

Kirstie Booth juggles her job as a hairdresser with her running

Ms Booth was recently shortlisted for Masters Athlete of the Year by Athletics Magazine, alongside Mo Farrah.

Away from the running track and travelling for competitions she is a hairdresser at her home salon in Runnington.

"A few of them were surprised recently when they saw some of the things I had achieved," Ms Booth said of her customers.

"They're very supportive, it's great," she added.

Coach Charlotte Fisher said Ms Booth was "redefining what's possible with age"

Coach Charlotte Fisher said Ms Booth's achievements should not be underestimated.

"To take it up in your early 40s, having never done it before, is incredible really.

"In many ways she's redefining what's possible with age, as a runner, and achieving amazing things," she said.