A 65-year-old triathlon champion has been given free access to a running track to help him train.

Hatch End triathlete Stuart McGowan has already won the English Triathlon and English Duathlon in the 65 to 69 age category.

To help his training, Everyone Active, which operates Bannister Outdoor Sports Centre, has given him access to its 400m running track for the coming months.

The guitar teacher is currently working towards the British Middle Distance Championships in Scotland and the European Duathlon Championships in Austria, which both take place later this month.

Mr McGowan said: "I've probably competed in 25 to 30 large and small events already this year. They're always very competitive and I'd say that I'm in the best form of my life at the moment.

“I'm returning from a long-term injury, so it's really pleasing to be back on form.”

“Since moving to Hatch End I have been supremely fortunate in being able to do my swim training at the Hatch End pool.

“The support and encouragement that I have received from staff and other swimmers has been a real boost to my training and racing, and free over-60s access is central to all our fitness.”

In June this year the Hillingdon Triathlete member came fourth in the World Duathlon Championship in Pontevedra, Spain.

Everyone Active took over the running of the borough’s sports facilities last year in partnership with Harrow Borough Council.