REDDITCH Borough Council has announced that the town will be hosting its first Walking Football Tournament later this month.

The event, which aims to encourage socialisation and provide fun for participants, is being held in partnership with Redditch United on Thursday, July 20 from 3pm to 5pm at The Valley Stadium.

Interested clubs, organisations, businesses, and friendship groups are being encouraged to put forward seven-a-side teams for a fee of £35 per team.

There are no restrictions on gender, age, or ability, and squads can be made up of any number of people, with roll on and roll off substitutions allowed.

Leisure portfolio holder for Redditch Borough Council, Cllr Joanne Beecham said: "The Walking Football Tournament at Redditch United is a fantastic initiative that promotes health and exercise for all.

"We’ve seen a lot of clubs start up and they’ve all been very well received, so to bring everyone together for a tournament is fantastic.

“Even if you aren’t part of one of the formal sessions, you can still put a team forward, perhaps for your business or friendship group, and just have a bit of fun and meet like-minded people."

The event will adhere to the rules of walking football, promoting a slower pace of play to minimize the risk of injury.

Redditch Borough Council leader, Cllr Matt Dormer, said: "This tournament illustrates our commitment to supporting recreational opportunities for all members of our community, regardless of age or ability.

"It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone to take part in and I encourage as many people as possible to put forward a team – or at least to come along and cheer for the participants."

Other walking sports options available in Redditch include walking cricket, walking touch rugby, and soon-to-be-introduced walking netball.