Currently 16.5% of the UK’s population is aged over 65 and the figure is set to rise to 22% within 20 years, that’s almost one in four people.

"Older people are at the forefront of British society today - throughout business and industry, as well as in family life” said Pensions Minister Steve Webb.

"We must harness the skills and experience of our older generations and Older People’s Day provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the important roles that they play here and all over the world."

Ann Hardy, a 70-year-old sports coach from Southampton who runs a 50+ club three times a week at Fleming Park Leisure Centre in Eastleigh, said: “Our group attracts around 100 people and we do a variety of sports from badminton, tennis, bowls and table tennis to swimming and aerobics. I don't even think about retiring. I still feel good and I can give good advice on health and keep fit so why waste it? It keeps me active and I enjoy it."