FREE mixed walking football sessions are being held in Taunton for people with Parkinson's and their families.

The initiative aims to be about having fun, building up fitness levels and meeting new friends.

They are taking place at Taunton Vale Sports Club on Saturday's June 17 and 25.

The sessions are being run by Taunton and District Ladies Walking Football Club manager Caroline Pike and Julia Tibbs.

Julia said: "Exercise is crucial for people with Parkinson’s, and the right type of exercise can help reduce symptoms and promote a sense of wellbeing, which is why these sessions are so important and why we are delighted to be able to offer them to people.

"Parkinson’s UK have kindly agreed to fund the two sessions and the Walking Football Association (WFA) are also working in collaboration with Caroline and me to offer their support and assistance at one of the events.

"We are very excited to be involved in such a key project and if successful the aim is to offer the sessions on a regular basis."

Offering walking football to people with chronic long term conditions is a priority for the WFA and recently Caroline and Julia were appointed to the WFA volunteer role of impairment managers for the South West.

Their brief is to raise awareness of the benefits of walking football and to encourage people with long-term conditions to begin to play the game with support from Caroline and Julia.

Julia added: "This is something that we will be focusing on in the next few months and talking to organisations and charities about taking forward in their geographical area."

If you are interested in taking part in the sessions, contact Caroline Pike on 07813 072016.