A KENT man has triumphed over more than 500 other "super-seniors" to take the title of UK’s Healthiest 70-Something in a competition.

Dennis Kemp, 77, of Whitstable, and his rivals competed in a series of challenges designed to test mind, body and spirit.

The competition was run by Yakult, makers of the first probiotic drink that is celebrating its own 70th anniversary this year.

Mr Kemp has won a luxury Mediterranean cruise for two worth more than £5,000, visiting the mountains of Morocco and the flower gardens of Funchal. He also received £500 spending money with which to treat himself to the odd memento of the trip.

The challenges in the competition included the current number craze SuDoku, the ancient Chinese puzzle ‘Tangrams’ and an extensive general knowledge test, as well as BMI and lung capacity tests.

The competition finished with an in-depth assessment of the contestants’ overall approach to life and health conducted by Michael van Straten (Health Journalist of the Year 2004).

Mr Kemp impressed the judges with his overall level of health and his attitude to life. First thing each morning, Dennis tackles a couple of crosswords before indulging in a spot of golf or snooker.

He is a regular member of his local retirement group, Whitstable Coastwatch, is active in the town’s historical society and also acts as manager of his local Lions Club.

He said: “I am delighted to have won Yakult’s competition. The standard was very high and I have met some wonderful people with a real ‘get up and go’ attitude.

“Vitality at 70-plus is easily achievable. It just involves a little bit of self-TLC. I put my success down to a healthy diet, which includes Yakult and fresh pineapple, taking a daily walk on the beach and maintaining a positive and adventurous state of mind."

Typical images of the UK’s senior populace tend to concentrate on the aches and pains of growing old, but Yakult’s competition entrants practised pastimes as diverse as cabaret troop dancing, sculling the Thames, mountaineering and one has even completed their 48th marathon!