WOMEN of a certain age can lace up their boots and put on their shin pads to take a shot at football as part of a wellbeing and fitness drive in Taunton.

Taunton Ladies Walking Football Club is setting up sessions for women in their 40s and over, 50s and 65s.

The initiative is the brainchild of Caroline Pike and Julia Tibbs, who played 11-a-side league football together 43 years ago.

Three weeks ago they attended a Sport Parkinson's event at St George's Park, the home of England football.

Julia said: "It was an amazing day and we came away feeling totally inspired.

"There were over 100 people with different levels of Parkinson’s playing the game."

The two women have now joined forces to set up the walking football sessions for women over 40.

A launch day has been held at Taunton Vale Sports Centre and the next session is on Sunday, April 24, from 1pm to 2pm at the same benue.

Julia added: "We are currently self-funding but looking for sponsorship to get this off the ground properly.

"We need a name for our match shirts, ball and training equipment.

"We have set this up to get women in Somerset active again.

"Where there’s a will there’s a way. The pandemic has hit us all hard and we feel this is a great way to help mental health, well-being, stop people feeling isolated, be part of a team and have something to look forward to every week."

No experience is necessary, there are no courses to commit to and no pressure.

"Just come and have fun and make new friends," said Julia, who added that they are linking up with Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership.

For further details, visit www.facebook.com/tadladieswalkingfootball/