But Joan Gallagher (74), of Cockett's Drive, Wisbech, is no ordinary pensioner.

This Sunday, Joan will be taking part in her third London Marathon in as many years when she completes the 26.2-mile run in aid of Independent Age – a charity supporting older people at home.

In addition to the usual methods, Joan's training includes pilates, yoga and pole dancing classes at the Esselle Ladies Gym, in Algores Way, Wisbech, which she describes as an 'art'.

"It's only just started, so I thought I would give it a go," she said, adding: "It looks very arty when it's done properly, but I only do it when I've got spare time."

But that's not all for Joan, as she also recently appeared in front of music mogul Simon Cowell and presenters Ant and Dec in an audition for Britain's Got Talent, doing her act Nail Inspiration.

It involves not only lying on a bed of nails with someone standing on her back, but smashing a concrete block on the back of a man with a sledgehammer.

Sadly Mr Cowell wasn't impressed and she faltered at the second hurdle of auditions having made it through the first test. However, her attempt could be shown on the show in the coming weeks.

Speaking about the audition, she said: "They were all lovely. Ant and Dec were really nice, but Simon Cowell just said 'oh no'.

"It's an old act that I brought back. I did it when I was younger and my husband did it with me."

Joan's husband sadly passed away a few years ago, so she enlisted the help of a neighbour to become her assistant.

She added: "His wife lives across the road from me, and she was willing for him to do it. He said he was game for anything so joined in."

Joan is running this weekend's marathon in aid of Independent Age, a charity close to her heart. The charity aims to support older people at home and have helped Joan in recent years.

"They've been good to me," she said, adding: "Managing things is a bit awkward sometimes and they have helped me out."

"I hope it warms up a bit for the marathon on Sunday. It's OK when you get started but it's just the waiting around at the start. I've not set any targets, I just pace myself."

n If you would like to sponsor Joan, it's still not too late and you can call her on 01945 584243. Alternatively you can donate to the charity through their website www.independentage.org.uk