A NUMBER of amateur footballers over the age of 40 went head-to-head in the inaugural Dudley Walking Football Challenge Cup.

Eight teams, featuring players from across the borough, took to the field at Wordsley Park last weekend.

Councillor Derrick Hemingsley, chairman of the Friends of Wordsley Park group, organised the event – which does not allow running in any form – alongside Age UK and Dudley Council’s public health.

He said it was a “dream come true” to bring competitive walking football to Wordsley, adding: “The competition was a great success and will be back in 2016.”

The Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Steve Waltho, was present hand over the winner’s trophy to a team from ‘Beechcroft’ in Halesowen.

Cllr Hemingsley claimed the team were worthy winners and said: “The event bought together Aged UK, Dudley Council’s Healthy Living Team, Wordsley Wasps and a host of volunteers to make this happen.

“I would to thank Dudley Council Green Care Team for the preparation of the football pitches for the event and the support of the Football Association for overseeing this competition.”

Russ Smith, coach mentor at Birmingham FA, said: “It’s great to see football being used for all age groups at Wordsley Park from Walking Football to Under 7's. Great work from all involved.”