A 94-year-old great-grandmother was surprised to receive a letter offering her membership of a fitness centre. No way was she turning it down.

Unlikely athlete Doris Budd has already dug out her tracksuit to make her first trip to the gym.

The letter offered Mrs Budd three years' full membership at the Cloud Nine Fitness Centre in Plumpton.

But her family say she is so fit and healthy, she needs little help from exercise bikes and rowing machines.

Mrs Budd received the unexpected invitation at the home she shares with her daughter and son-in-law in Green Lane, South Chailey.

The former hairdresser, said: "I could not believe it. I don't know much about exercise but I like being alive.

"I might be 94 on the outside but I feel 21 on the inside."

Daughter Cherie Winchester said: "When she saw the offer the first thing she said was, 'Oh yes, let's do that'. She was in hysterics.

"We thought we would dress her up in her tracksuit and take her down there. She was all for it. I hardly think she needs it because she is amazing for 94."

The offer was part of a promotion entitling new members to discounted fees for three years. Addresses across the area have been receiving the details.

Fitness centre instructor Jan Palmer said: "We have had a gentleman in his 80s with us in the past, although I think 94 is pushing it a bit. But this lady is very welcome to visit, even if she does not want to join."

Another Sussex couple who took up the offer of regular workouts are 91-year-old Mick Morris and his 89-year-old wife, Helen.

The couple, who live in Portland Road, Hove, are a familiar sight at nearby Abbey Court Leisure Centre.

Their routine includes use of the treadmills, exercise bikes and weights - not bad, considering Helen has had both knees and a hip replaced and Mick has had one knee joint replaced.