NEW research shows that the newly retired are shunning traditional retirement towns, and opting for a more active lifestyle.

NEW research shows that the newly retired are shunning traditional retirement towns, and opting for a more 'active' lifestyle.

According to data from Pegasus Retirement Homes and property search website, Rightmove, 12 of the top 20 towns in Britain with the highest density of specialist retirement apartments are not traditionally associated with older people.

Spokesperson for the study, Joanna Lennon, says it's because the newly retired 60-year old is not of the same generation as an 80-year old yet, they are bracketed together as "retired".

"They are young in outlook and are more likely to choose Exmouth over Budleigh Salterton or Sidmouth.

"Why? Because they want to be able to pursue their active life in a vibrant environment."

She said the new older generation wants to be able to walk to their favourite butcher, greengrocer or bank and they also want to be close to a gym, swimming pool and cultural facilities - in fact, they like being close to a vibrant town centre.

Development sales manager at Pegasus Court in Exmouth, Dianne Chinnock, says: "I have had many enquiries from people who want to move to Devon, but they have found the concentration of older people in some towns overwhelming.

"There are retirees in Exmouth, but they are spread amongst a town that has a thriving community of families, young people and students.

"The town also has a mixed economy - it does not rely on tourists and retirees for income and this also makes for a more varied demographic. Because they are young at heart, they want to be amongst younger people to help them remain in touch and active."

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