A Cumbrian walking football club is on a recruitment drive.
Millom Ironworks Walking FC, which comes under the umbrella of the town’s football club, was created as a result of Covid in 2020.
Following the impact of the pandemic on the local community, national and local government were looking to develop initiatives to engage people in activities.
Active Cumbria approached local organisations to develop walking activities aimed at the older population.
Millom AFC, along with Millom Network Centre, Millom RLFC and Age UK West Cumbria responded to the initial request and the idea of walking football in Millom was born.
It was originally based at Millom ARLFC but when it began to outgrow the space provided, moved to the local Rugby Union club where they have their own pitch.
Playing on Sunday mornings throughout the year, they have over 20 members now, including those who were involved five years ago in taster sessions.
Although not originally set up to be a competitive group, they have entered some tournaments and have won two trophies.
But they also help the local Millom community, sponsoring games at local clubs while also raiding funds to provide Christmas hampers for the elderly in the area.
Reg Hammond is originally from Bristol, lives in Dalton and enjoys helping out at the club.
He said: “We usually play five-a-side on a Sunday morning but there have been times when we hadn’t enough.
“So it was decided to have a bit of a recruitment drive and stress how beneficial it can be for mental health, general fitness and wellbeing.
“We play for fun, but we have done well when contesting the occasional tournament. We won trophies at Workington and Milnthorpe.
“I would say our ages range from the 40s to the 60s, with the average age somewhere in the middle.
“Walking football is becoming more popular and I hope we can attract a few more to join us at Millom.”
For more information, email Reg Hammond via [email protected] or Tony Bickerdike via [email protected]
