'World class' woman, 96, breaks parkrun record

A 96-year-old woman has set a record at Worcester Pitchcroft parkrun for the fastest time in her age range.

Irene Edge completed the 5km course on 27 September in one hour and 20 minutes which organisers claimed was "world class" for her age when using the World Masters Athletics grading system.

Mrs Edge, who lives near Halesowen, was encouraged to take part by her daughters Jacqui Burt and Angela Podmore.

She said she "loved every minute" of the parkrun and was keen to do more, with plans to take part in another parkrun in Evesham.

"It was very pleasant, very friendly," said Mrs Edge. "I didn't know what to expect, because I've never done one before, but I loved every minute of it."

She said: "I didn't realise that it was done in such a short time, an hour and 20 minutes that we were walking for."

'I enjoy life'

Parkrun uses age grading to allow participants to compare their results to others of their age and gender.

It means Mrs Edge's performance placed her in the top 91.71% of her age grade when measured against the world record for her age group.

The parkrun at the racecourse takes place every Saturday and anyone can join in, whatever their pace.

Mrs Edge said she kept herself fit by eating healthily and walking to the shops from her home.

"I've never driven a car so I've done a lot of walking, even just to do a bit of shopping," she said.

"I look after myself. I have three meals a day: I have a decent breakfast, I have a light lunch and then I have a cooked meal or a salad in the evening. I don't smoke and I don't drink."

She added: "I appreciate every day I live - I enjoy life. It's just luck of the draw, isn't it?"