Barnstaple Parkinson’s communities encouraged to try new walking football project

People living with Parkinson’s in Barnstaple and the surrounding areas of Devon are being encouraged to try a new walking football offer which is aiming to help more local communities live well with the condition.

When: launching on Friday 11 September from 12pm to 1pm and continuing on a weekly basis during term-time.

Where: Tarka Leisure Centre, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 2AS

Delivered by experienced instructors and football coaches, the new sessions are designed to help more people get active in a fun and social way.

All ages and abilities are welcome to attend and no previous experience of football is required.

Participants are recommended to bring comfortable footwear and clothing for football training, as well as water, snacks and any medication they may need on the day.

Spectators are welcome to watch the sessions and refreshments can be purchased from the venue. There is no seating at the venue, so players and spectators are recommended to bring camping chairs.

Steve Kent, Walking Football Coach at Tarka Leisure Centre, said:

“I’m really looking forward to working on this new project and supporting more people living locally with Parkinson’s to get into walking football.

“I would encourage anyone with Parkinson’s to get in touch and come along to give the new walking football sessions a try.”

Heather Worth, Area Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said:

“I’m thrilled to have the first Devon Parkinson's Walking Football offer happening in Barnstaple. Led by the very brilliant and energetic Steve Kent who has Parkinson's himself, and will be the perfect person to lead this new venture with enthusiasm, but also the sensitivity it deserves.”

Walking football is shown to have many benefits for people living with Parkinson’s, including: