Walking football, one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports for the over 50s, is coming to Bath, with a new group starting in Odd Down next Monday.
Described as ‘the beautiful game, only slower’, walking football is reviving a passion for sport among men whose on-the-ball skills may be as good as ever, even if they last broke into a sprint in the days of Kevin Keegan’s perm.
The skills, tactics, and all of the rules of walking football are the same as the speeded-up version of the sport, but walking football has one rule which if broken means a free kick – no running is allowed.
The sessions are being organised by Age UK B&NES with funding from the Big Lottery Fund.
They cost £3 to attend and will run every Monday from 10-11am until the end of June at the new Odd Down Sports Ground.
They will be run by Nick Dewfall, who last week won an award for his contribution to inclusive sport in the Bath & North East Somerset Council Chairman’s Awards and who already runs successful walking football groups in Yate and Keynsham.
Anyone interested can turn up on the day, ensuring that they are wearing sensible clothing for exercise, and football boots if they have them, although there are some boots available to borrow, in various sizes.
Tea and coffee is available after each session, at the new Odd Down pavilion.
To find out more call 01225 466135, 01225 484510 or email [email protected]
Age UK B&NES is a local charity that supports around 12,000 older people, their families and carers every year, with essential services.
It is always looking for more support and funding as well as volunteers.