COUNCIL cash has been invested in football sessions with a difference to help the over 50s stay active.

The "Walking Football" group is the first of the year to be awarded funds from Hambleton District Council’s small grant scheme.

The weekly sessions were set up in Northallerton by the council and Age UK and have been awarded £1,500 to help with equipment, room hire and volunteer costs.

Paul Fisher, project worker for Age UK, explained the benefits of the sport.

He said: “It is growing in popularity especially among older or less physically active people because it involves walking rather than running and engages both males and females as it is less aggressive, more social and great for all abilities. It also helps improve physical health and participants are likely to cover a walking distance of about two miles with realising it.”

Walking Football takes place every Monday at Hambleton Leisure Centre from 4pm to 5pm.