WALKING Football is poised to become one of the most popular sports in the borough for older people.

Already firmly established in other parts of the country, Walking Football looks set to kick off locally following the formation of Dudley based side Hartshill Strollers.

The game already has the backing of the Birmingham County FA and organisations like AGE UK are backing the sport like mad.

Walking Football is played in exactly the same format as Five-a-Side football, the only difference is that players are not allowed to run. If they do, a free kick is awarded against them.

Mark Grazier founded Hartshill Strollers and the club currently has 16 active players.

At present, they are the only club in borough, but sides have already sprung up in Oldbury and Hall Green. There are also clubs in Telford, Shrewsbury and Bromsgrove.

Mark, who is 54 and also manages the side, said: "Walking Football has been a bit slow to catch on in the West Midlands, but I think that might be down to lack of information about the sport.

"At the moment we've only be recruiting players by word of mouth.

"In other areas, they are running leagues and competitions, while we've been restricted to a few friendlies. But that could all change if we attract some more players.

"We are looking for players over 50 years of age, but at some point I would like to start an open age side and a ladies team as well.

"Don't be fooled. Walking Football is hard work, but great for fitness as you soon build up a sweat. I'm normally aching quite a bit the following day after I've played.

"Players are not allowed to slide tackle, the ball is rolled into play instead of thrown in and there's no overhead play or heading as quite a few players wear glasses.

"It's a surprisingly energetic game, but great fun.

"We've got people in their 70s who have played football in their younger years, yet they still have that competitive streak.

"We've played friendlies against clubs closest to us and we expect to be playing much more often in 2015 and taking part in competitions organised by the Birmingham County FA, who are keen to promote the game."

Hartshill Strollers train every Tuesday from 7pm until 8pm at Sixes in Ham Lane, off Stallings Lane, Kingswinford.

New players are welcome to join. Alternatively they can contact Mark on 07813 710778 or go to the club's website www.hartshillstrollersfc.com