Claire Donald came, saw and conquered the rest of the field when she competed for Team GB in the European Masters Athletics Championship on May 15.

The 56-year-old, who only took up running at the age of 35, saw off 26 other athletes from around the world to win the female’s 55+ category race, which was run over a 10k distance.

Donald stormed to the finish line one minute and 11 seconds ahead of her nearest competitor in the road race, which was held around the streets of Italian city Grosseto.

The Championships, which invite competitors from all over the continent that are over the age of 35 to compete, also saw High Wycombe resident also took home a team gold medal after string performances from her two compatriots.

Donald said: “I started running about 20 years ago and this was my first International event so I was extremely nervous before we set off but also very excited.

“I truly felt a great sense of pride wearing my GB kit, which really spurred me on to push myself hard. Although it was tough with the heat and the wind direction wasn’t ideal, it was a brilliant experience and I loved every minute of it.

“I’m thrilled with my win and so proud to have gained gold with my teammates as well.”

Donald and her husband Chris run a local running club called Purple Patch and she provides coaching alongside competing in international events.

The next target for the Bucks athlete is to become the best on the planet at her age group when she travels to Lyon to compete in the World Masters Athletics Championships.

The tournament begins on August 4 with Donald once again hoping to achieve success over the 10k distance.