A SUPERFIT 75-year-old from Barrow is preparing to take on her 10th consecutive London Marathon today, taking the motto 'you're never too old' to the extreme.

Jill Thompson, of Piel View Grove, Barrow, will pound the tarmac across the nation's capital on Sunday as her incredible running story continues.

The former physicist at Vickers completed her first marathon at the age of 48 and has never looked back, losing count of just how many 26.2 mile races she has completed over the years.

Miss Thompson's personal best time is three hours 38 minutes, which she set many years, and she is hoping for around five-and-a-half hours this time round.

The fast life

She said: "Some people say 'why are you doing it at your age?' I just enjoy it. I don't feel 75.

"Like most runners I have a bit of arthritis, my back and legs feel it a bit more now, but it keeps me healthy.

"It takes a bit longer to recover these days but I love it."

Miss Thompson has completed marathons across Britain, including Liverpool and Manchester, more than keeping up with people half her age.

However, she says the allure of the London Marathon proves to be too strong each year due to the friendly atmosphere and cheering crowds.

From beginner to pro

Miss Thompson started out like most new runners - a nervous beginner. But she soon found her confidence and goes along to Barrow Parkrun every Saturday with friends.

She said: "I'm 75 now but when I got to the age of 30 I started to think if you don't do something with yourself you'll start to go to seed.

"I had a friend in Barrow Striders and she said come along to the club. 

"Like all beginners I was nervous but they were all very friendly. I gradually worked up the distances."

In London, Jill will be running once again for the Huntington's Disease Association, after a long-time friend was diagnosed with the incurable disorder of the central nervous system.

Risedale at Abbey Meadow in Duchy Court, Barrow, has a small ward for people with the condition and Gill's fundraising has seen money stay local and go towards its upkeep and services.

Guide to getting marathon ready

1) <strong>Get outdoors!</strong> - Don't be afraid to go out running. She says: "They often say stepping outside the front door is the hardest part."

2) <strong>Go to Parkrun</strong> - Building a routine of running and comparing times to see progress is essential.

3) <strong>Things will go wrong</strong> - Expect challenges and setbacks along the way but perseverance is more important than anything else. She says: "Don't be afraid to look a bit of a fool sometimes."

4) <strong>Work up the distance</strong> - Make sure you run at least 20 miles before taking on a marathon. "Work up from 10km to six miles, ten miles and make sure you have a good 18 mile or 20 mile under your belt."

5) <strong>Listen to your body</strong> - Be realistic and set achievable goals - only you will know what they are.