Nantwich Walking Football Club celebrated its founder’s 80th birthday year in style by hosting the inaugural Ray Sheppard ‘Festival of Football’.

The event, at Vagrants Sports Club on Newcastle Road, brought together around 80 club members for an afternoon of fun, friendly competition and community spirit.

Four mixed-gender teams, made up of players of all abilities from across the club, battled it out for the newly-created Ray Sheppard Festival of Football Shield.

The 7-a-side tournament was played on Vagrants’ impressive all-weather pitch, with two matches taking place at the same time before each team faced the others to decide the overall winner.

The tournament honoured club founder Ray Sheppard, who launched Nantwich Walking Football Club in 2015.

Fittingly, Ray presented the shield to the winning team at the end of the competition.

Nantwich Walking Football Club celebrated its founder’s 80th birthday year in style by hosting the inaugural Ray Sheppard ‘Festival of Football’.
The event, at Vagrants Sports Club on Newcastle Road, brought together around 80 club members for an afternoon of fun, friendly competition and community spirit. — Pic credit: Jonathan White

The club now boasts men’s over 50s and over 60s teams, as well as a thriving women’s over 40s side.

The men’s over 50s and women’s teams compete in the Cheshire FA Walking Football League at Moss Farm Leisure Complex in Northwich, while the over 60s enjoy regular fixtures against other local clubs.

Walking football follows official Walking Football Association rules, with no running or physical challenges allowed.

The slower pace makes it a great way for people to stay fit, enjoy football and meet new friends, regardless of age or experience.

Ray Sheppard said: “When we started the club back in 2015, I never imagined it would grow into such a fantastic football family.

“Seeing so many members enjoying themselves at this first Festival of Football is incredibly rewarding.

“It’s been a wonderful way to celebrate my 80th birthday year, and I’m proud of everything the club has achieved together.”

Joint tournament organiser and shield sponsor Steve Griffiths said: “The idea was to bring everyone in the club together for a day of friendly competition and celebration, and that’s exactly what happened.

“There was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the afternoon, with players encouraging each other and enjoying every minute.

“We hope this becomes an annual event that continues to celebrate everything that’s special about Nantwich Walking Football Club.”

For more information about Nantwich Walking Football Club, visit its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4734727806586738

Source: https://thenantwichnews.co.uk/2026/08/05/walking-football-festival-in-nantwich-marks-club-founders-milestone/