FOLLOWING the success of the introduction of Walking Football to the local area, Age UK, the country's largest charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life, have launched Walking Cricket on to the St Helens public.

The game is in its infancy with Age UK and various Cricket organisations throughout the country currently running try-out sessions to gauge interest and establish a common set of playing rules.

Age UK Mid Mersey in partnership with Rainford Cricket Club recently ran a taster session for a number of over 50 year olds at Peter Street Community centre, which proved to be a great success.

The session facilitated by Paul Farrar, Rainford’s captain and club coach, saw 16 men and women of varying skill levels take part.

John Williams Rainford’s Chairman said: “It was obvious that many of them had played before and Paul and I were really impressed with the quality of the competition.

"The beauty of the format is that everyone, irrespective of ability, gets the same chance to play."

The initiative is led by Age UK Mid Mersey’s Inspire and Include team who also run a range of other activities.

The Training and Health and Safety Manager Fiona Ryan was delighted with the session.

She said: “We’ve had great feedback from those that took part. Everyone really enjoyed themselves.”

Age UK Mid Mersey, with help from Rainford Cricket Club, now intend to run regular sessions starting in the New Year.

Anyone interested in joining in should contact Fiona or Kym on 01744 752644 or inspire&include@aukmm.org.uk