'Can you kick it?' Over 50s encouraged to get involved in walking football

There are weekly sessions at Ibstock and Castle Donington.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) is inviting men and women who want to increase their activity levels to take part in its walking football sessions.

The sessions have been designed to boost wellbeing and provide a range of mental and physical benefits by getting people aged 50 and above to move at a pace they feel good about whilst working as a team.

The rules for the sport are slightly different to regular football as participants are unable to jog or run but all other rules remain the same so players can make use of the skills they learned once before.

The sessions cost £2 and are currently being held at Castle Donington College on Mondays at 6pm to 7pm and Ibstock Leisure Complex on Wednesdays from 7pm to 8pm. 

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC, said: “Our Walking Football sessions offer a new way of playing football for people aged 50 and over and have learned the skills of the game before – the only difference is the pace as you’re not allowed to jog or run.

“By being physically active and working as a team, you can help to improve your mood, boost your overall mental wellbeing and increase your social circle at the same time.

“I would encourage anyone who’s familiar with the rules of football and wants to increase their activity levels to get in touch with our health and wellbeing team to book onto a session.”

Booking is required by contacting Georgia James at Georgia.james@nwleicestershire.gov.uk or by calling 01530 454735. More information can be found: www.nwleics.gov.uk/walkingfootball