Walking Football is proving very popular at Oak Tree Leisure Centre

Walking football sessions on the 4G pitch at Oak Tree Leisure Centre in Mansfield are proving very popular with local players.

A fast-growing alternative to traditional football, walking football is an attractive past-time for more experienced players as it still requires the vision, skill and concentration levels of standard football - but gives people the chance to enjoy ‘the beautiful game’ at a pace that suits them.

Roy Gregory, 76, from Mansfield Woodhouse, was invited by his brother Colin to join him for a game of walking football at Oak Tree Leisure Centre three years ago and has been going ever-since. He said: “It’s a brilliant session and, in terms of exercise, it’s the highlight of my week.”

“I’m getting on a bit now, so my physicality and fitness can stop me from being able to compete at the highest level - but this type of football is perfect for me.”

Roy has been involved in local football for most of his life – most notably being the Chairman of the now-dissolved Sutton Town Football Club - and he’s glad to have a new outlet for his competitive edge. “You never lose that spirit,” he said.

“Every time I play, I want to win and every time I have a shot at goal, I want it to go in. That side of the game will never leave me.”

“I really enjoy the camaraderie down here. Although it’s competitive, it’s not deadly serious and we can still have a laugh and get fun out of it - there’s certainly that forgiveness for us older players.”

So, what’s Roy’s message for those on the fence about giving walking football a go?

“Come and try it - I’m convinced you’ll enjoy it.

“You might ache for a while afterwards - but we still turn up, we all do our best - and it really does keep the ticker going.

“We’ve got all levels that come here and enjoy it - and that’s the main thing, the enjoyment.”