Bedford woman, who ran London Marathon at 88, dies

She was "inspiration to many older and younger runners"
By Clare Turner
Published 23rd Nov 2020, 17:27 BST
Updated 23rd Nov 2020, 17:30 BST
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Iva Barr - who was one of the oldest marathon runners in Europe - has died.

She had run more than 80 marathons and finished her last race in 2016, aged 88.

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The 93-year-old, from Bedford, was a member of Bedford Harriers Athletics Club, which confirmed she died last Tuesday (November 17).

Iva Barr, with her friend and RAF veteran David Green, when she was greeted by the Prince of Wales last yearIva Barr, with her friend and RAF veteran David Green, when she was greeted by the Prince of Wales last year
Iva Barr, with her friend and RAF veteran David Green, when she was greeted by the Prince of Wales last year

In a statement on the club's website, it said: "It is with great sadness that we have learned that our fellow Harrier and friend, Iva Barr, passed on Tuesday 17th November at the grand age of 93.

"Iva was a member of Bedford Harriers from the early days and only stopped running a few years ago. As well as being an ambassador for the club, Iva also encouraged, and was an inspiration to many older and younger runners."

Last year Bedford Today reported how Iva met Prince Charles after being invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.There, they chatted about her many running exploits.

Related topics:BedfordEuropePrince Charles