THEY'RE made of stern stuff in Ledbury - and Phillip Howells is living proof of it.

The 68-year-old, from the New Mills estate, is in the running to be named the UK's most active pensioner.

And just to prove he is worthy of the accolade he is planning to run three marathons over the next three weekends.

The first will be over Salisbury Plain, the next will be through the Cotswolds and the last will be around Wenlock Edge.

"Some people would say I am a fitness fanatic, but fitness is an important part of lifestyle," he said.

"I’ve always been an active person and being in my sixties certainly hasn’t slowed me down.

"Whether it’s running, cycling or taking part in triathlons and competitions, for me there is nothing better than keeping active, getting out and about and enjoying life."

Mr Howells managed the Brighton Marathon last year in a highly creditable four hours and 30 minutes.

In total he has run 167 marathons and has a lifetime target of 333. Despite a recent major back operation he has 12 further marathons booked in 2015.

He is also a keen cyclist and triathlete and is determined to compete in an ironman competition by the time he is 70.

The former lieutenant with the Royal Fusiliers is now appealing for the support of the community in Ledbury to help him take home the title of the UK’s most Over Active Pensioner (OAP).

The winner will be decided by public vote and takes home £500 of Virgin Experience Vouchers towards active pursuits.

"I’m delighted to have been selected as a finalist and hope everyone in the local community will get behind me with their support," added Mr Howells.

Andrew Robertson from Senior Railcard, which launched the competition, said: “With such impressive achievements under his belt, it’s great to see that Phillip has been shortlisted to be the UK’s most Over Active Pensioner.

“He is a prime example of our findings that over sixties are healthier and more active than ever before.

"It’s fantastic that he has been shortlisted, but now we are calling on Ledbury residents to vote for Phillip so he can win the competition and be crowned the UK’s most Over Active Pensioner.”

To vote visit overactivepensioner.co.uk by May 11.