A 90-year-old has marked his milestone birthday with a workout at his gym - where he is the oldest member. 

Derek Phillips, who was born on November 21, 1934, relocated from London to Alphamstone in 1970 and moved into Sudbury 26 years ago. 

The father-of-three, who worked in screen printing before he retired at 63, is a well-known face in the town, having appeared in a variety of amateur dramatic productions throughout the years. He is also a member of Clare Bridge Club. 

Derek Phillips (centre) with Emma Drury (left), Matthew Drury (right), baby Alice and Marbles the dogDerek Phillips (centre) with Emma Drury (left), Matthew Drury (right), baby Alice and Marbles the dog (Image: Lucy Taylor) But Mr Phillips chose to mark the start of his 90th year on Thursday with a rather different activity - lifting weights at Everest Gym in Sudbury's Burkitts Lane, where he is the oldest member. 

Of his decision to join the gym, which is run by couple Emma and Matthew Drury and launched in 2020, he said: "I saw it here when I was walking by and I wasn't sure if it was active, but I thought I would like to get a bit more exercise so I just phoned up and said 'are you open?'

"Emma was surprised, I think, when I said I was born in 1934."

Mr Phillips, whose wife Gill will turn 88 next week, said he enjoys attending Everest Gym for the physical health benefits and because of the people there.

Derek Phillips using some of the machinery at Everest GymDerek Phillips using some of the machinery at Everest Gym (Image: Lucy Taylor) "Luckily I am still physically fit and I am not in bad shape so I can still do this," he said.

"I feel it is good to get out and to get a bit of exercise. I still drive as well and I don't plan to stop anytime soon."

Of Mr and Mrs Drury, he said: "They are lovely people and they are a big part of the reason I come here."

Derek Phillips in the gymDerek Phillips in the gym (Image: Lucy Taylor) Mr Drury said: "We have noticed in the last couple of years that we do get older people come in during the day - they bring so much life to us really." 

And Mrs Drury added: "It is so social in here so it is good for people to get out.

"Sometimes people might not speak to someone else all day so for someone to come down here it's good for their mental health."