The 71-year-old grandmother’s weightlifter caused a stir on social media

Mary, who shares her progress on her fitness Instagram, said: 'I get a lot of people trying to tell me that I shouldn't be weightlifting at my age - but I just laugh and tell them to check out my records.

'There are times when I wonder why I push myself as hard as I do, for sure, but it's people's positive comments that keep me going.

'I don't want to look like the average 70-year-old grandmother, because I definitely don't feel like one.

'I don't think I'll ever quit powerlifting - not unless I absolutely have to.

'Even if I do stop competing, I'll still work out and keep in shape.'