An east Suffolk fitness instructor celebrated her 70th birthday by completing a gruelling half ironman event.

Marion Walker, from Benhall, near Saxmundham, took on the challenge in Weymouth, which included a 1.2-mile sea swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a half marathon run.

This was her seventh half ironman event, in addition to four full ironman races.

She raised £1,600 for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) with the help of match-funding from Barclays.

Mrs Walker said: “It was a great event, and I was very pleased and proud to raise as much as I did,” said the mum of three, who also has two grandchildren.

“I asked people in my fitness classes which charity I should raise funds for, and so many said EACH.

“It’s such a great charity and one I have so much respect for."

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The mother of three, who also has two grandchildren, was cheered on by her husband John and five close friends.

Despite an early start and a challenging bike ride, Mrs Walker finished the event in eight hours, 12 minutes and 33 seconds.

She said: “I’d already decided I was going to do the run regardless, so was absolutely thrilled to get an official time.”

Spectators and fellow triathletes picked up on the fact it was her birthday and offered their support.

Mrs Walker said: "I felt like a celebrity as I ran onto the red carpet at the finish line. It was brilliant.”

Anne Austin, EACH community fundraiser, said: “What an incredibly energetic and brilliant way to raise funds.

"We’re so thankful and wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the amazing support of people like Marion.

“She did fantastically, and, as well as saying a huge well done, I’d like to offer my belated birthday wishes. What a way to celebrate.”