A north Norfolk sports club is celebrating after netting more than £6,000 from the National Lottery.
Sheringham Walking Football Club was awarded £6,600 from the National Lottery Community Fund to help grow the club, improve facilities and spread the word about the benefits of the slower‑paced game.
The club, which began in 2019, currently has players ranging from their mid‑50s to late 80s.
Two sessions run each week, with a mixed session held on Thursday morning and ladies‑only sessions on Fridays.
The club has around 52 members, but secretary Steve Buckley said they are always looking for more recruits.
“We’re quite a small group and at our gentle age we do get injured quite easily, so we need a big squad,” he said.
“It’s not super competitive, it’s for all levels.
“You don’t have to have played before, and beginners are welcome.”
The funding will pay for new kits, first aid and defibrillator training, wellbeing courses, promotional work and even new goal nets for their pitch behind The Reef leisure centre.
The club is keen to contribute to wider improvements at the site so other groups can benefit.
Mr Buckley said walking football was about much more than exercise. “It’s good for wellbeing.
“We’ve had people who’ve lost a partner and it’s given them something to look forward to.
“Being part of a team is a big thing, I never thought in my mid‑60s I’d be playing football and meeting so many people.
“It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
New players can enjoy a free taster session before deciding whether to sign up.
The club also puts on social events and enters tournaments for those who want to compete.
For more information, visit the Sheringham Walking Football Club Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1353044199111424/ or contact Steve Buckley at sbuckley1884@gmail.com.
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Author: The Walking Football
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