A new initiative has been launched in Lincoln to encourage more adults to stay active through an adapted version of cricket.
Age UK Lincoln & South Lincolnshire has joined forces with Lincolnshire Cricket Club to offer a weekly walking version of the sport for men and women aged 50 or above following successful trials.
Walking Cricket is a slower paced, indoor format of the traditional game which is tailored to those with reduced mobility or physical impairments.
Laura Mackie, the community engagement and activities coordinator at Age UK Lincoln & South Lincolnshire, said: “We’re hoping this partnership with Lincolnshire Cricket Club can be the catalyst to help grow walking cricket across the county.”
The 36-year-old added: “I think older adults can sometimes get scared when they hear the word ‘sport’ and they have that perception of how physically demanding it was when they were younger.
“But the beauty of walking cricket is that it’s played entirely at walking pace which means it’s accessible for a wide range of people who are maybe less physically able or who have lower fitness levels.”
In total, 18 people attended the taster sessions of whom 11 had played club-level cricket when they were younger.
Duncan Wilson, 67, was one of the participants at these sessions and he enjoyed the social benefits of getting involved.
The retired bus driver said: “It’s been a great way for me to get out of the house, socialise with new people and make friends all whilst getting the health benefits of exercise.
He added: “We may not be able to run but we have a good laugh together and that does wonders for your mental health.”
The weekly sessions are taking place on Mondays from 1.30-2.30pm at Moorlands Community Centre and cost £2 each.
You can find out more about the initiative here.
