TWO Worcestershire MP's donned their football kit to take part in a walking football event as part of a national campaign.
Worcester MP Robin "Ward Prowse" Walker, and Nigel "Henry" Hudleston, Mid-Worcestershire MP, took part in Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s walking football group during Loneliness Awareness Week on Friday (June 17).
It is not known if they lived up to their famous name-sakes but they certainly seemed to hold their own on the pitch.
The visit was to see the first-hand benefits of walking football and how it can help older people feel less isolated.
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Nigel Huddleston MP, minister for civil society and youth, said: “Age UK’s Walking Football Programme is a fantastic way for communities to come together and tackle loneliness.
“It was great to see its inspiring work helping older people make new friends while having fun and getting exercise.
“In government, we are supporting those affected by loneliness through our Every Mind Matters campaign which highlights the benefits of social connection this Loneliness Awareness Week.”
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Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s walking football group is part of the wider Age UK Walking Football Programme, in partnership with The Football Association and Sport England.
The programme helps older people in communities across the country keep active and improve physical and mental well-being through playing the game.
Julia Neal, CEO at Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire said: “We were thrilled to have the Ministers visit the Age UK Walking Football Programme in Herefordshire and Worcestershire today, helping us to raise awareness of the programme.
"It’s been such a difficult and isolating time for many older people recently and the Age UK Walking Football Programme is a great opportunity to meet new like-minded people in a safe and fun environment.
“Staying strong and steady with physical activity is also proven to contribute to increased physical function, independent living, and improved quality of life in both healthy and frailer older adults.
"There is also evidence that being more active can also lower the risk of depression and dementia, heart disease, stroke, Parkinson’s and some cancers.”
To sign up for Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s walking football group, you can visit: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/herefordshireandworcestershire/activities-and-events/walking-football/ or call 0800 008 6077
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