VETERAN indoor rower Herbert Leah has collected a British Championship title from the five times legendary Olympic champion Sir Steve Redgrave.

The 75-years-old Tyldesley sportsman raced to a gold medal in the closely contested men's 75-79 lightweight category at the AXA PPP healthcare British Indoor Rowing Championship in Birmingham.

The event attracted more than 2,500 competitors with some of the finest Olympians including James Cracknell and Sir Steve taking part

In front of the 7,000 crowd Herbert raced to a time of 7 min 37.6sec over the Olympic regatta distance of 2,000 metres on the Concept 2 indoor rower.

Patron Sir Steve said: "What is fantastic about this event is that it is an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to take part in a race alongside some of the country's finest athletes. What other sports offers that?"