A HAMPSHIRE retiree has completed the Southampton Half Marathon in memory of her late husband.

Ann Bruce-Low, 79, took on the Southampton Half Marathon on September 5 with more races on the schedule over the coming months.

Ann, who lives at the Churchill’s Hubert Lodge development in Hythe, took just four hours to complete the race, raising over £200 for the Southampton Hospital charity.

Widowed earlier this year, Ann, who has been a member of Hadley Runners for 17 years, ran the half marathon in memory of her husband.

“I’ve been a member of the local running club, Hadley Runners, for nearly 17 years,” said.

“We meet up for training twice a week and it’s a very friendly club.

"During lockdown running really helped me as it was a way to get out and meet people, I may not be the fastest but I do enjoy it.

"Now that races are back on it’s great to finally be able to take part again, and I was pleased to raise some money for Southampton Hospital who did such a good job looking after my husband when he was ill.”

She added: "Everyone [at Churchill] is independent and young at heart like me, they’ve all been very friendly and welcoming, and they all sponsored me for the half marathon which was lovely.

"My fundraising total has reached £220 and there are more donations on the way.”

Having successfully completed the big race, her third half marathon, is Ann planning on running a few more races this year.

She said: "I’m doing a 10k this Sunday and then another 10k the following weekend.

"I may be slower than I used to be, but I love running and I’m not planning on stopping."