The hunt is on for Chelmsford's most active pensioner. 

The average Chelmsford pensioners average retirement now consists of two holidays a year, a disposable income of £457 a month and a glass of wine at 4.55pm, according to a new study.

Over 60s in Chelmsford undertake more than 15 day trips a year and enjoy two slap-up meals out a month, according to the poll by the Senior Railcard, which offers a third off standard and first class train fares for people aged 60 plus.

It’s no surprise then that when questioned, 66 per cent of Chelmsford retirees felt they were living life to the full by making the most of their retirement, with the same amount saying that they’re having more fun since retiring than ever before.

One of the secrets to Chelmsford pensioners’ positive outlook is their active lifestyle, undertaking brisk walks, gardening or yoga classes at least once a week.

It’s no wonder then 70 per cent of those polled felt younger than their age.

Andrew Robertson, from the Senior Railcard, said: “Leaving work and having so much spare time on their hands can be apprehensive for those embarking on retirement.

"So it’s fantastic that so many people are relishing their retirement and staying active. Brisk walks were by far the most popular form of physical activity, followed by gardening, and yoga.

"While an ambitious few are keen to take part in adventurous activities including motorsport, zip wiring and kayaking. 

"Our poll showed that Chelmsford residents in their sixties, seventies and eighties are determined to make the most of life in retirement and have no intention of slowing down.

“As a result we’ve now launched a competition to find Great Britain and Chelmsford’s most Over Active Pensioner (OAP), so we can celebrate those who are really living life to the full.

“Whether wake boarding, scaling mountains, or simply travelling throughout Great Britain, we’re looking for those aged 60 plus that are going above and beyond to be as active as possible.”

The search for the UK’s most Over Active Pensioner is being supported by journalist and broadcaster, Janet Street-Porter.

Janet said: “For me turning 60 didn’t slow me down, it spurred me on to enjoy my free time, exploring the country and doing what I love best, walking.

“The Senior Railcard’s search for the UK’s most Over Active Pensioner will hopefully show that over 60s are fitter and more active than ever before, and encourage people whatever their-age to get out and enjoy life."

Travelling for two weeks or more was one of the most popular activities for Chelmsford pensioners in their first year of retiring.

Andrew added: “This research shows that retirees place a lot of importance on travel when they finish work.

“Whether it’s holidays at home or abroad, Chelmsford pensioners are keen to see as much of the world as possible, using their free time to see parts of Great Britain that they may not have previously had the chance to visit.

"With the Senior Railcard we try to make that as affordable as possible by providing a third off rail fares and exclusive discounts.”

Further details on the Senior Railcard Over Active Pensioners competition can be found at www.senior-railcard.co.uk/OAP.