A pensioner from Upminster has been ice skating for more than three decades – proving that age is just a number.

Alan Paul has been dedicated to the sport for more than 35 years, spending the last six years regularly skating at Sapphire Ice and Leisure in Romford.

He visits the rink weekly, and sometimes even twice a week.

Over the years, the 78-year-old has passed ice skating grades, although for him it has never been about entering competitions.

Alan likes to stay active, but the benefits of ice skating go beyond exercise.

Alan Paul has been ice skating for more than 35 yearsAlan Paul has been ice skating for more than 35 years (Image: Everyone Active)

He said: "It certainly improves my balance, coordination and confidence.

"I come home less stressed.

"I come off the ice feeling relaxed and refreshed, ready to face what the rest of the day has to offer."

Alan is focused on trying to improve his spins at the moment, getting a "large sense of achievement" from working on this skill.

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But, more than anything he values the social aspect of the sport, "looking forward" to meeting other skaters who come to the same session, "whether they be young or old".

Everyone Active is celebrating Alan as part of their 'Age is Just a Number' campaignEveryone Active is celebrating Alan as part of its Age is Just a Number campaign (Image: Everyone Active)

Alan said: "If you are reasonably fit and have a sense of balance, then there is no reason why you can't enjoy skating and meet fellow skaters who may be able to give you some useful tips."

Alan is being celebrated by Everyone Active, who manage the centre in partnership with Havering Council, as part of its Age is Just a Number campaign.

The initiative, which runs from October to November, aims to promote active lifestyles among seniors across Havering, challenging age-related stereotypes.

Alan is working on his spins at the momentAlan is working on his spins at the moment (Image: Everyone Active)

Tom Fletcher, area contract manager for Everyone Active, said: "Alan's story is a perfect example of what our Age is Just a Number campaign is all about.

"His dedication to ice skating and the benefits he gains from it show that staying active can be enjoyable and rewarding at any age.

"We hope his journey will encourage more seniors to try new activities and maintain an active lifestyle."

Councillor Gillian Ford, deputy leader of Havering Council, added: "As shown with Alan’s experiences at Sapphire Ice and Leisure, our facilities located across the borough make such a positive contribution to both our physical and mental health."