Walking football in Barrow has brought three generations of one family together – proving that age is no barrier to staying active, social and having fun.
Run by Age UK South Cumbria, the sessions have been taking place for two and a half years as part of the charity’s Activities Programme, which promotes gentle physical activity for people aged 50 and over.
Among the regular players are 80-year-old Anne Bispham, her son-in-law Dave Jones, 49, and his daughter Grace, 22. The trio now attend the group every week and all help out in various ways.
Anne first joined the group 18 months ago with a few friends and enjoyed it so much she encouraged her family to come along. Dave, a football fan, visited with Grace and they were both quickly welcomed onto the pitch.
Steve Tweddell, 62, Social Engagement Officer at Age UK South Cumbria, said: “This is a special situation we have at our walking football group with Anne, Dave and Grace all playing together. The age difference between them and watching them playing is heartwarming – it’s lovely when you hear Grace shout ‘Well done Grandma!’”
Walking football in Barrow
Dave and Grace now volunteer with the group and help run the sessions each week, strengthening the family bond even further.
Anne said: “I love playing walking football with friends and family members. It is such a good group – we have a good workout whilst having fun.”
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Walking football is one of several weekly activities organised by Age UK South Cumbria for people aged 50 and over, including indoor bowling, line dancing, coffee mornings, lunch clubs and more.
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The sessions take place every Thursday from 11:15am to 12:15pm at Barrow Leisure Centre, moving to Hindpool Community Centre during school holidays.
To book a place or find out more, call 01229 831425 or email jjoel@ageukbarrow.org.uk. Full details can be found on the Age UK South Cumbria website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/southcumbria/activities-and-events/
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Author: The Walking Football
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