A TEAM of ‘old’ ex-footballers are hoping to sign new members with the aim of putting Barry on the walking football map.

Duffers United walking footie team, in Barry, an all-male team for 50 years and over, is looking to recruit new blood with a female team also welcome to form.

The team train in the Cadoxton Sports Hall from 6pm to 7pm, and anyone aged 50 plus is welcome to don their kit and take to the pitch.

The team currently comprises of a Vale of Glamorgan Council driver, a self-employed builder, a power station worker, office worker, police officer, plasterer, and lock smith and some retired.

The players are also seeking sponsors.

Founder and player, Gary Angel said: “The team was started in February 2019 after an idea of mine as I can't play running football anymore due to knee problems.

“After speaking to a few of the boys I used to play running football with they thought it a good idea to get back into playing, but looking after our past injuries.

“We have received sponsor and donations from Barry Lock Shop and Andrew Weeks and Sons Builders which has helped us to get a good start.

“Andrew also plays for us.

“A few of us used to play running football together a long time ago, but most of us know each other from the walking football.

“We now socialise outside of the walking football and include partners in this.

“We go to Footgolf where we have a laugh and just enjoy ourselves.

“We have also walked Pen-y-Fan for our charity Finn's Foundation and raised just over £2000.

“We have all come together for many different reasons and have now become good mates who cannot wait for a Wednesday evening to all get together for training,” Mr Angel said.

“It helps get people out who would maybe sat in the house on their own with nothing to do.

"It is also an enjoyable way of getting and keeping fit at our time of life.

“It is trickier than running football as the instinct to run is always there and it's hard to break the habit.

“It is a no contact sport and is played no higher than shoulder height, so no headers and hopefully less injuries than running football.

“You do not need any qualities or abilities - just a basic idea of the game which is good because anyone can become involved.

“We have no special match preparations, but the team are welcome to go for a pint, or two, after the game to keep the social aspect of being together going.”

The team played against a team in Cardiff, but lost 2-1.

“It was an amazing achievement for the team as we hadn't been together long and it was our very first game against another team on an outside pitch,” Mr Angel added.

“I have built this team from nothing and we now get an amazing turn out every week.

“We are now a team and we enjoy the training sessions and the socialising outside of this.

“I think this has definitely helped with any mental health as we are all there for each other.

The aim of the team is to now join a walking football league and play proper matches against other teams, we need to now push ourselves.

“Any help in joining a league would be welcomed.”

The team is also chasing a sponsor who can help get a team kit and some other items.

Mr Angel added: “If it wasn't for my partner Leann this would not be possible as she deals with keeping the books and banking.

“Please come and get involved, it is so much fun.”

It costs £5 per person, per session, with £1 going to the team’s chosen charity - Finn's Foundation.

Search Duffers United Walking Footie on Facebook or call 07545 320632.