The county association will be delivering free-of-charge opportunities for males and females to get involved at three locations throughout the city as part of Bristol Walk Fest, the UK’s largest celebration of walking.

Walking football has continued to grow at a rapid pace over the past few years, as shown by its prominent annual inclusion in the Bristol Walk Fest calendar of events.

The sport is an adapted and inclusive version of the beautiful game which involves reduced speed, no hard tackling and no balls to be kicked over head height.

Gloucestershire FA (GFA) football development officer Jack Stanbury explained: “Whether you’re male, female, an ex-professional footballer or someone who has never touched a ball before, you can get involved throughout this month and beyond.

“All sessions will have suitable exit routes for continued participation at venues around the city at one of our numerous weekly walking football kickabouts, enabling participants to improve their fitness and lead a healthier lifestyle.”

Female-only sessions are pencilled in for Horfield Leisure Centre on May 9 and 16 at 6pm, and St Pauls Community Sports Academy on May 12 and 19 at 10am.

These opportunities are open to women over the age of 35 regardless of experience and ability.

Jack promised: “This will be a gentle introduction into the world of walking football, where the primary aims are to have fun, make friends and get active.”

Not content with that, the GFA are also running a session open to males and females over the age of 55 on the brand-new 3G pitch at Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.

This turn-up-and-play provision is also free of charge and will be running from 5-7pm on Wednesday, May 9 when participants can also watch the grand final of the County Walking Football League.

Jack smiled: “It’s a great chance to witness in action some of the guys who have re-engaged with the game of football and regained their competitive streaks!”