At 75 years of age Jean Pierce is not perhaps the first person you'd think of as a fitness instructor but she has just been recognised at this year's Cornwall Women of Achievement Awards for her work helping people of all ages and disabilities to stay healthy.

Jean, a part-time course tutor at Truro College, has been a dance tutor all her adult life and currently teaches "Fitness through Exercise, Movement and Dance."

Jean, who is a registered tutor with the Keep Fit Association, is a firm believer that age and disability are no barrier to keeping fit.

She said: "Exercise helps the whole body both mentally and physically achieve a feeling of well being which in turn improves people's quality of life.

"If you exercise it makes you feel ten years younger on the inside!"

The ceremony was organised by Ashley Events and held at the Eden Project. It recognised achievements by women who work to improve the lives of people in the local community.

Jean was nominated by her friends and family and won the award in the education and training category which was sponsored by the University of Plymouth.