Mollie Benson from Ferndown is an inspiration to us all. At the grand age of 90, she still visits her local gym, Ferndown Leisure, not once, but twice a week to keep fit and enjoy a bit of socialising.
For 13 years, Mollie and her two friends, Pam Morrell (72) and Pam Prendergast (78) both from West Moors have met up almost every week to work out.
Mollie said, “We were all sent to the gym under a scheme called ‘Doctor’s Orders’ in 2000 and we each follow our own programme according to our physical abilities.” Their trainer, Jo Sinclair has been their mentor over the whole 13 years.
“I would recommend the gym to anyone,” adds Mollie. “We enjoy the physical exercise and the staff are very good and advise us about what to do and what not to do. Afterwards, the three of us look forward to a coffee and a social get together.”
Pam Prendergast added, “When I leave the Leisure Centre I walk ten feet tall. Commitment is the hardest thing, but as there are three of us, we spur each other along.”
“We don’t like to let each other down by not turning up,” added Pam Morrell.
Mollie celebrated her 90th birthday in February and Ferndown Leisure Centre presented her with a bouquet of flowers.
Manager Jason Knight said, “We think its fantastic that the little group started 13 years ago and are all still coming here. They are lovely people. Not many people of Mollie’s age are still using the gym, but she just goes to prove, that you are never too old.”
Mollie still drives and does her own shopping. As well as visiting the gym twice a week, she loves knitting and knits hats for premature babies at Poole Hospital.
