IF IT came to a contest, there are a lot of oldies who would put the young 'uns to shame. It might be a question of the tortoise and the hare, but we know who won that one.

Retired folk, it seems, have boundless energy when it comes to later life activities - whether it is raising money for charity or just enjoying themselves.

Ending one's working days and starting retirement is as big a step as leaving school and starting work. As much enthusiasm goes into the autumn phase as a stripling's first steps in a new career.

The McCarthy & Stone Retirement Awards are positive proof. These annual awards aimed at recognising the achievements of pensioners, have unearthed a tireless trio of musical entertainers, in their 60s and 70s, who perform several times a week for charity. They have also spotlighted a champion athlete, aged 59, and two nonagenarian musicians.

In a world seemingly designed exclusively for young people, with a many-splendoured array of electronic and sophisticated entertainments just for them, maturity is often a dirty word.

Too often the youngsters - freshly-risen from the malaise of their couch and their computer games - are dismissive of older folk.

So it is heartwarming to see the over 50s fighting back and showing there's life in the old dogs yet.

And they have a lifetime of experience and expertise which is used shamelessly in getting the best out of their leisure days. How often do you hear the ridiculous moan "I'm bored" from these energetic silver-tops?

It is more a case of "How did I ever find the time to go to work?"