A SLOWER version of the “beautiful game” for the over 50s is set to make its appearance in the Forest.

Walking football means that players are penalised if they run, and there are already more than 20 centres in Gloucestershire offering the game.

Now the Angus Buch­anan Trust wants to launch it at the memorial recreation ground in Coleford and is calling a meeting of interested people.

Trust chairman Andrew Barrow said: “The health benefits of walking football are shown to be extremely good, particularly with regard to blood flow, suppleness of joints and muscles, breathing and general mobility.

“So the trust have decided to make available land for a pitch or pitches to facilitate such sessions, and the Gloucestershire Football Association and Coleford Town FC have offered to supply some equipment.

“An inaugural meeting will take place in the Leonard Craze Pavilion, within the recreation ground (next to the bowling green) at 4pm on Sunday, July 2, and all interested parties are asked to attend.”

Walking football is targeted at keeping people aged over 50 involved with football if, due to a lack of mobility or for other reason, they are not able to play the traditional game. The sport can be played both indoors and outdoors, and if a player runs, they concede a free kick.

If you are a coach, club, leisure centre, college or any other sports provider and would like to set up a walking football centre, contact Gloucestershire FA’s Jack Stanbury on 01454 615888.