A Nightingale House resident has completed her first race at the age of 87.

Ann Rowe took part in Sunday’s Parallel London 5k event, having worked to build up her strength and mobility with Michael Stokes, physiotherapist at the south London home.

She has raised more than £7,500 towards a £10,000 target to thank Nightingale for all it has done for her.

When Mrs Rowe moved into Nightingale four years ago, she was wheelchair-bound, depending on manual hoisting equipment to move about.

Through weekly physio sessions, she can walk short distances and get in and out of cars.

“Nightingale has given me a new purpose,” she said. “I’ve found a home for life and the staff do everything they can to make our lives worthwhile and interesting.”

She was assisted on race day by Mr Stokes and there was a wheelchair for back-up.

“I am so grateful to Michael Stokes for enabling me to achieve my ambition,” Mrs Rowe added.

“We have both worked so hard over the past eight months to reach my goal of crossing the finishing line on foot.”