IT'S never too late to conquer your fears, just ask Ryfields resident Edna Worrall.

At the age of 68, Edna is competing in the ExtraCare Charitable Trust's Going 4 Gold challenge.

Around 1,000 residents are taking part in the scheme, which will enable 100 winners to travel to the Commonwealth Games in Australia next year.

The Going 4 Gold event is designed to enthuse both the fit and the frail.

Gardening, abseiling, fishing, painting or simply learning to walk again after a fall, are just some of the challenges residents can choose from in the five activity zones associated with the Olympic rings.

Edna was terrified of flying and more than a little scared of heights but since she went on holiday to Tenerife earlier this year, she's determined nothing will stand in her way ever again.

She said: "I can't say I'm enthusiastic about flying but I will do it again and, of course, if I am one of the winners I'll have to fly to Australia.

"I was too terrified to go up Blackpool Tower until this year so although I was never able to take my children I will now be able to take my grandchildren."

She adds: "After my husband died my life was nothing until I moved into Ryfields.

"Now I take part in lots of activities, help behind the bar and act as an ambassador for ExtraCare and feel and look like a different person.

"I'm involved in things I wouldn't have bothered to do in the past and now they are earning me points for Going 4 Gold.

The ExtraCare Charitable Trust champions learning for residents aged 55 and over. It has 26 retirement schemes including Ryfields, which is situated off Gorsey Lane in Orford.