Walking football for over 50s re-started at Grant Park, Forres

LOCAL football fans over 50 years old are being invited to play in a safer version of the game.

Having stopped in March during the coronavirus lockdown, walking football makes a welcome return to Forres and sports development manager Paul Rogan wants players to sign up for one of the 14 spaces that are currently available.

He said: “Walking football is a slower version of the beautiful game where players walk instead of run. It’s fun, friendly and can help you feel fitter and healthier.”

Hour-long sessions usually take place in the games hall at Forres House Community Centre, but they will be on at Grant Park on Fridays at 2.15pm for the foreseeable future, due to ongoing restrictions on indoor activities for adults.

Players meet outside the cricket pavilion where sports development coach and referee Tom Giles organises teams for seven-a-side matches nearby with cones and mobile goals, or on a marked pitch on the playing fields when they are available.

Free kicks are indirect, kick-ins replace throws, there are no offsides, the ball must be kept below head height and, of course, anything so much as a jog is prohibited.

Paul added: “Tom has been running the sessions for years. Around 16 players were turning up every week before lockdown. They were all very competitive and certainly had a great work out.”

Business owner Jeff Bradford (57) has been involved for around four years in Forres and Elgin.

He said: “I enjoy the football itself and it keeps me fit, but I also enjoy the social aspect.

“Walking football is not all about fitness, or competitiveness, as it’s open to all fitness levels and genders. It’s more about helping mental health if anything, especially in the current climate.”

Walking football is free for Fit Life members and £2.80 for everyone else. Call 01309 672838 for more information.