The concept is called Walking Football and a growing number of ‘veteran’ players are taking it up in order to keep fit.

Training sessions and matches are held at Bracknell Sports Centre every week with the emphasis on fun and enjoyment.

They are organised by Bracknell Town & District Sunday League chairman Keith Thomas with the help of former Bracknell Town FC and Finchampstead FC boss Bobby Langridge and fellow enthusiasts.

“All those ex footballers that are over 50 and want to still be involved with the sport, this is for you,” said Thomas.

“It gets you fitter and people will enjoy the social side of it as well.

“All over 50s are welcome to come along and get involved or just come and see what they are missing.

“Getting people back into active exercise is a good step forward and the creation of Walking Football can only be positive.” Sessions last one hour or more and teams are split into six, depending on numbers.

And Thomas also hopes to attract more women to the sport in the future: “Women’s football is very big nowadays and I’m sure it won’t be long before we see a Walking Football women’s team launched in the area.” The Bracknell Walking Football team are now preparing to compete in their first ever seven-a-side tournament at Bisham Abbey this Sunday.

The competition is organised by the Berks & Bucks FA and will include teams from throughout the region.

And Thomas explained the many benefits it can bring to the Over 55’s: “Most of the guys are commenting on their weight loss, are feeling better and are enjoying being active,” he stressed.

Players have been wearing pedometers during recent sessions which reveal the average competitor takes between 5,500–6,000 steps per match, covering a distance of around 4.6km or 2.9 miles.

Training takes place every Wednesday on the 3G pitch behind Bracknell Sports Centre from 10.30pm-11.30pm.