A man celebrating his 90th birthday had a surprise celebration from his fellow gym-goers in Carlisle.
Raymond Brennan swims for 30 minutes six days a week at the Sands Centre – which he started doing 27 years ago after being forced to retire due to ill health.
Gym members, led by Marian Walton, conspired last week to stage a surprise to mark the 90th birthday of Raymond Brennan.
Raymond, who arrived at the gym in his new Mercedes sports car – an early birthday gift to himself – was greeted by people with cake, balloons, chocolate, flowers, wine and cards on his arrival at the gym ahead of his daily swim.
Raymond said the routine of regular exercise and socialising with friends at the gym was key to his happy and healthy lifestyle.
Raymond said: “I was a plumber by trade, so my career had taken a toll on my knees. I knew that once I retired, I wanted to stay fit and active as well as meet new people and make acquaintances so I took up swimming. I’ve never looked back.
“Not long after joining the gym, the pain in my knees completely disappeared. And I couldn’t have better friends in all the world.
“They really helped me to deal with the loneliness I suffered after my wife passed away a few years ago. And to surprise me with this amazing gathering, well I’m just totally blown away.”
When asked what his secret is to a long and healthy life, Raymond said: “To have as many birthdays as you can as well as a good sense of humour.”
James McGarry, general manager at the Sands Centre, said: “I’m delighted that Raymond and his comrades were able to celebrate this incredible milestone together.
“Raymond is the epitome of good health, which is testament to the long-term benefits of exercise. As a longstanding regular, it’s a pleasure to see Raymond benefit from all aspects that his gym membership offers.”
