Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that older Zoomer athletes – with a life long history of endurance training and competing – are prone to heart rhythm disturbances.

They say this is due to molecular changes in the heart.

In some cases, the researchers say that could mean a pacemaker in old age.

They point out as long distance running continues to grow by around 5 % each year, more needs to be known about possible heart changes that can occur over time.