SKIPTON Walking Football Club has hit a landmark as it approaches its first year anniversary.

The club starting with six players in the first session, and they now have over 50 players.

Walking football is a slower version of the beautiful game designed to help people keep an active lifestyle and help older people who live in social isolation meet new friends.

Chris McGrath, who started the club and who runs it, said: "It's a great way to keep active, learn new skills, have fun and make new friends. Players tell me that it's great to be over 50 and be still be able to play the game they love.

"Playing walking football reduces the chance of injury as there is no contact, no running, no tackling from behind or from the side and no heading the ball. It's ideal for the over 50s male and female players.’’

The club play three one-hour sessions per week at Sandylands Sports Centre outside on artificial grass. Sessions cost from £3 to £5.

All abilities are welcome, as the club has players who have never kicked the ball before to an ex-semi professional, but the majority are former Saturday and Sunday players who have played in the local area.

McGrathadded: "The club has had two social events and it’s just great to meet people, have a laugh, banter and get fit at the same time."

For more information, contact on Chris 07429 508537 or email cpmcg@hotmail.co.uk