SUPER GRAN Veronica Kennedy has been crowned a rowing World Champion - at the age of 71.

Veronica, who has six children and 17 grandchildren, suffered a stroke three years ago and only took up indoor rowing last October.

Her son, Stephen, competed in the World Championships last year and asked his mother if she would like to travel with him to Boston, USA, for this year's event. She decided to take part and began training at the Workouts Gym in Oakworth Road, Keighley.

She completed the 2000m 'course' in 13mins 24secs to win the 71-75 years womens event. Over 2,000 athletes took part in the overall competition with Briton Graham Benton the overall winner - and getting an invitation to join the UK Olympic rowing squad.

"Veronic's achievement is fantastic, she is an inspiration to women of any age," said gym owner Paul Royston.