Ex-Claret Willie Irvine on the ball with walking footy

The former professional footballer has officially kicked off Burnley Leisure’s walking football sessions in a bid to get older players, as well as novices, back on the pitch.

Walking football is a standard game of indoor football where players walk instead of run and is quickly catching on.

Michelle Grimes, events and funding officer, said: “We are delighted to be offering this new activity in Burnley, giving people the chance to get back into football. When people first hear about walking football, they assume that it will be played at a snail’s pace and lack the excitement of the traditional game, but they are usually in for a pleasant surprise. The sessions include skills development and help build confidence in a friendly environment.”

The aim is to help adults get fit and stay active, no matter what their age, weight, fitness levels or ability.

The kickabout sessions cost £3.50 and take place every Friday between 10am and 11am at St Peter’s Leisure Centre. They are run by Burnley Leisure’s Get in2 and Healthy Lifestyles teams.