Walking netball boost for fitness

A WALKING netball project has been established by Halton Borough Council.

The initiative has begun thanks to funding from Sports England and is designed to help adults become more active.

It is led by talented coach Andrea Gumbs from Runcorn and the project has made great strides, winning six out of eight matches to take the silver medal at a recent tournament in Manchester.

The charity tournament for Cancer Research UK took place at the National Cycling Centre with teams from across the North West.

Andrea, 51, said: “It is like getting a new lease of life.

“Being able to take up a new game or playing the game you love and being able to take part in a physical activity, burn some calories, keep fit and keep the old heart pumping is exciting. It’s so much fun.

“Meeting and chatting with new friends, what more can you ask for.

“Not only that, to enter a competition at a major venue and feel the atmosphere, really is inspirational.

“Mainly though it’s all about a weekly session where you can feel welcome and involved and get some exercise on a gentle level.”

Training sessions are held every Wednesday from 10.30am to 11.30am at Kingsway Leisure Centre in Widnes.

Participants are required to bring trainers and a drink.

It costs £2.20 or £1.95 with a Halton Leisure Card.

More than 100 activities operate every week as part of the Get Active project for adults in Halton.

The council is seeking to establish a new session for walking football as the current one is now full to capacity at Kingsway.

Call 0151 511 8550 or email Paula.Parle@ halton.gov.uk for more information.