A valued local walking football club is appealing to Midsomer Norton and Radstock businesses to help them carry on their popular, and fun, local sessions.

And until they do, the devoted organiser has vowed to fund the matches, enjoyed by all, out of his own pocket.

The Midsomer Norton Walking Men's Football Club was formed four years ago and played at Welton Rovers FC. Since those early days of half a dozen players, it has grown to twenty playing on Tuesdays and Thursday's from 10am to 11am at Midsomer Norton Sports Center.

They have forty players in total, but due to holidays, illnesses, injuries and work, around half of that number turn up to form four teams playing on two pitches.

It is primarily an over 60's group,although exceptions can be made owing to circumstances.

Angelo Ruiz who has managed the group from the outset, wishes to increase the number of players, and is able to increase the sessions at the Sports Center.

The cost is only £5 per session, but a free taster on a first visit basis,is offered to newcomers.

Angelo said:" Walking football is a great way to get fit and healthy,whilst enjoying being out in the fresh air. It doesn't matter what level of skill you have,or even if you haven't played before, just by playing and joining in the camaraderie with the continual banter is enjoyable.

"We have respect for each other, and are very supportive when times maybe difficult for some of the players, some of the stories are really quite warming,but it shows how much care is shown to one another "

Recently Age UK who organised the sessions,and used to pay for the pitches,kit and footballs,announced that they are unable to continue with the funding,which has had an impact on the Club.

But Angelo is determined to keep the Club going,and is appealing to local businesses to make a small donation,so that they may continue.

In the meantime Angelo will fund it himself,with a little help from the players holding social events including quiz nights locally.