WALKING CRICKET COMES TO ST HELENS

Date: 3rd February 2016

Age UK initiative supported by Rainford CC

Following the success of the introduction of “Walking Football” to the local area, Age UK, the country's largest charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life, have launched “Walking Cricket” onto the St Helens public.

The game is in its infancy with Age UK and various Cricket organisations throughout the country currently running try-out sessions to gauge interest and establish a common set of playing rules.

Age UK Mid Mersey, in partnership with Rainford Cricket Club, ran a taster session for a number of over fifties at Peter Street Community Centre just prior to Christmas, which proved to be a great success.

The session facilitated by Paul Farrar, Rainford’s captain and club coach, saw sixteen men and women of varying skill levels take part. John Williams Rainford’s Chairman said “It was obvious that many of them had played before and Paul and I were really impressed with the quality of the competition. The beauty of the format is that everyone, irrespective of ability, gets the same chance to play”.

The initiative is led by Age UK Mid Mersey’s Inspire and Include team who also run a range of other activities. Training and Health and Safety Manager Fiona Ryan was delighted with the session. She said “We’ve had great feedback from those that took part. Everyone really enjoyed themselves.”

As a result, regular Walking Cricket sessions, organised by Age UK Mid Mersey with help from Rainford Cricket Club, currently take place every Wednesday in St Helens. Anyone interested in joining in should contact Fiona or Kym on 01744 752644 or inspire&include@aukmm.org.uk