The man believed to be the world’s oldest marathon runner has announced that he is to run his last marathon in February.

Fauja Singh, 101 of Goodmayes will run the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon.

Last year he became the country’s oldest Olympic torchbearer during the relay.

He also took the flame when it was in London for the 2004 Athens Games.

Fauja started his career as a marathon runner at the age of 89 and ran last year’s London Marathon in a time of seven hours, 49 minutes.

Speaking of the secret to a long life, he said: “I am told vegetarians tend to live an average of six to 10 years longer than meat-eaters do.

“Age may bring wisdom, but if you want stamina, endurance and a lifetime of good health, turn to nutritious vegetarian foods.

“I attribute my longevity to simple Punjabi vegetarian foods, such as chapati, dal, sabji and saag.”