History of Walking Football

Walking Football might seem like a modern invention, but its roots are firmly planted in the desire to keep people of all ages engaged with the beautiful game. Emerging in England in 2011, the sport was initially developed by Chesterfield FC as a way for older adults to continue playing football in a safe, accessible environment. The rules are simple—running is not allowed, and the ball must stay below crossbar height—but the benefits are far-reaching, improving mobility, fitness, and social wellbeing.

The game’s popularity grew steadily, gaining significant media attention in 2014 thanks to a memorable Barclays TV advert. This publicity propelled Walking Football into the national consciousness, inspiring clubs and community centres across the UK to organise regular sessions between 2015 and 2020. By 2024, the Football Association (FA) launched its Walking Football Game Plan 2024–28, formalising its commitment to the sport’s growth, whilst UEFA introduced a comprehensive Walking Football Toolkit to help clubs across Europe develop their own programmes.

Walton’s Walking Football Story

The Walton Walking Football journey began in the early summer of 2014, sparked by the efforts of Paul Cudmore from Surrey FA and enthusiastically supported by Mark Blythe from the very first week. Early sessions at Xcel Walton were modest affairs—just two-a-side games in the gym—but the tenacity of the group, combined with support from Surrey FA and a wave of interest following the national TV advert, saw numbers steadily rise.

Local pioneers like Geoff Singh, Denis Thomson, and Martin Kelly were soon joined by John Davis, Larry Dann, and Mawgan Higgins, among others. With around 20 regular players, the group transitioned to the 3G pitch outdoors, though winter saw a return indoors. By March 2015, they moved permanently to outdoor play on grass and astro turf, with the community going from strength to strength.

Competitions, Trophies, and Growth

November 2014 marked a milestone as Xcel Walton hosted the first ever Walking Football Tournament in Surrey, with ten teams competing. Walton’s team emerged victorious, defeating Croydon 4–2 in the final and making a name for themselves in this burgeoning sport. The following year, they retained the Surrey Walking Football Champions title, this time triumphing over Caterham in a dramatic penalty shootout.

The team’s reputation brought further invitations and recognition. In 2015, they attended the Elmbridge Sports Awards, where Mark Blythe was honoured with the Senior Sports Personality Award, and the team itself were runners-up for the Team Award—fitting recognition for their achievements and growing influence.

Memorable Moments: Rugby, TV, and Premier Venues

The spirit of camaraderie extended beyond football. During the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup Finals, Walton hosted the Fiji team, sharing a lively walking football match and a singsong. Their story even caught the attention of Swiss TV, with Thursday morning sessions broadcast to a European audience. Team member Larry Dann, known from the ‘Carry On’ films and ‘The Bill’, became a TV star in his own right, praising the fitness and fun Walking Football brought him.

Competitive opportunities expanded further with the launch of the Surrey FA Walking Football League in 2016. Walton finished second in its inaugural year, winning the next three over-50s championships. The team also competed against London’s professional club teams, including QPR, Fulham, and West Ham, frequently punching above their weight.

Success extended to the Mayor of Bournemouth’s Annual Charity Tournament, with Walton reaching the semi-finals in 2015 and lifting the trophy in 2016. They even ventured abroad, travelling to the Algarve for the Albufeira Walking Football Cup, where they brought home more silverware and cherished memories.

The Covid19 nightmare caused us to develop deep friendships and trust throughout the group. The hundreds of zooms with workouts, chats and football legends linked in with nonstop WhatsApp group support helped many to pull through from desperate situations. It culminated on the One Show at Stamford Bridge which was a highlight for many of us.

Joining the Swans and the Future

After years of success, we officially joined Walton & Hersham in 2024, beginning a new era for Walton as we look to continue having an impact in walking football.

Today, Walton & Hersham’s Walking Football sessions at Xcel attract over 150 players weekly, a testament to the community’s enduring appeal. The team’s achievements reflect not just sporting excellence but a spirit of inclusivity, friendship, and fun. Social events, quizzes, and Christmas parties have further bonded the group, bringing together people from all walks of life. In additions our events have supported charities. We sent over £300 worth of food and items to Walton Foodbank in 2024. We have raised over £2000 for various charities, including Parkinson’s, Macmillan and Princess Alice Hospice.

Looking back, it’s remarkable what this team has achieved—on and off the pitch. Our story embodies the best of what sport can offer: health, happiness, and lasting connections. Here’s to many more years of walking, playing, and celebrating together.