Last updated at 20:47, Thursday, 17 May 2012

A Keswick man who is still as “fit as a fiddle” at the age of 85 will carry an Olympic torch on June 21 from Workington.

John Merritt, of Cross Street, who underwent two knee replacements six years ago, still goes walking at least three times a week.

The retired Open University professor has completed walks around the local fells including the Fairfield horseshoe, Scafell Pike and Helvellyn.

Mr Merritt was also a track racing cyclist in the early 1940s and was named North East champion for cycling on rollers.

His son Austen nominated him.

Mr Merritt said: “I’m still as fit as a fiddle so I don’t need to do any training prior to the event because I go on regular walks and sometimes go for runs.

“I’ve been fit all my life and have always been very active, I definitely plan to run the distance on the day. I’m very honoured to be carrying the torch.”

His son Quentin, 51, and wife Denise will be at the event to support him.

First published at 19:20, Thursday, 17 May 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk