People who play golf live longer, a major study has found, as it shows the game helps prevent 40 major chronic diseases such as diabetes, breast and colon cancer.

Researchers reviewed 5,000 studies into golf and wellbeing and found the sport has physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages and can even increase life expectancy by five years.

Balance and muscle endurance in older people are improved by playing golf and it is also likely to improve cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic health.