A WOMEN who turned her retirement into a second career has scooped an award for inspiring achievements.

Edith Thornton, 81, claimed the regional title in a search by McCarthy and Stone for the Inspirational Generation - an initiative which celebrates and rewards the feats of older people.

Edith, who lives in Ferndown, took on a whole new life when she turned 60 and decided to follow her passion and set up a Stagecoach Performing Arts School.

At any one time, the school would have around 50 students and would offer an hour each of dance, drama and singing. The pupils went on to perform in professional shows like, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Half a Sixpence and Evita.

Edith said: “I am delighted to be one of the regional winners of this amazing competition! I decided to enter the search for the Inspirational Generation because I felt driven towards telling people of my age that there is a life out there after retirement and we must grab it!”

In honour of Edith being given the regional accolade, McCarthy and Stone are donating £200 to her nominated charity, Macmillan Caring Locally. Edith also received a luxury hamper.

TV and radio personality Gloria Hunniford, who performed guest judge duties for Inspirational Generation, said: “My congratulations go to Edith for winning the regional award and for making a real impression on the judges."