A NEW partnership is bringing walking football to over-50s in the Bradford district.

Its thanks to Age UK Bradford District and BEAP Community Partnership.

The sessions take place weekly every Thursday from 11am-12pm at BEAP's indoor pitch at 31 Cornwall Road, Bradford, BD8 7JN.

The hour-long activity includes a gentle warm up and football is played at walking pace with reduced contact tackling.

Shaukat Ahmed, 66, has enjoyed the first two sessions and said: “I used to play football when I was a youngster, but haven’t played since I retired.

"This is the second session we’ve had so far, its wonderful, everyone is so positive, a motivational group and everyone is trying their best.

"I like it, and hope it continues and more people join us. Walking football is totally new concept to me, having to explain it to the senior citizens group at BEAP.

"They are amazed that you can play football just by walking, now two of them are here today.”

Mark Rounding, Chief Executive at Age UK Bradford District, added: “It’s been a real success in getting a group active and reconnecting with others by playing walking football.

"We offer more than just a kick around at the sessions and encourage people to stay around afterwards for a chat and refreshments. Through connecting with older people this way we can also find out more about what they might want and need from us.”

Humayun Islam, Chief Executive at BEAP Community Partnership, said: "Walking football is a much-needed project in the Manningham area.

"The feedback from the sessions has been positive. The session has brought people together from all backgrounds and we look forward to more people coming along". 

The first two taster sessions are free of charge and then will cost £4 a session, with refreshments provided.

Anyone interested can contact Age UK Bradford District to sign up or to get more information by calling 01274 391190 or emailing info@ageukbd.org.uk