The world’s oldest marathon runner has marked National Vegetarian Week by revealing that his no meat diet is the key to his health and longevity.

Fauja Singh, 101, of Goodmayes completed nine marathons in the past 12 years, with the London marathon in April marking his retirement from the 26mile distance.

Though he maintains he will continue to run shorter races, the “Turbaned Tornado” claims the day he stops running “will be the day my body stops altogether”.

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.”

Far from finished, Fauja now has his sights set on climbing one of the world’s tallest buildings in Tapei.

He added: “When I reach my destination, I will be able to say that no animals had to suffer because of my food choices along the way.”