Walking Cricket Helping Those With Age Related Needs Keep Active And Beat Loneliness

Howzat! Walking cricket sessions in West Lindsey are growing in popularity among people aged 50 and above, as well as those with mobility issues, offering a fun and accessible way to stay active and socialise.

Councillor Moira Westley, Deputy Leader of West Lindsey District Council and ward member for Market Rasen, recently stepped up to the crease as she joined a session at Market Rasen Leisure Centre. During her visit, Cllr Westley saw first hand the benefits of the sport

Walking Cricket is a slower, accessible format of the game, played with a soft ball and plastic equipment. The indoor version features adapted rules designed to make cricket inclusive and enjoyable, rather than intensive or competitive.

Players walk between wickets, bowlers walk to bowl and fielders walk to retrieve the ball keeping the game active but gentle.

Weekly walking cricket sessions take place on:
Wednesdays, West Lindsey Leisure Centre in Gainsborough (12pm-1pm)
Mondays, Market Rasen Leisure Centre (11am-12pm).
Sessions cost £3 per person and are delivered in partnership with Everyone Active and Lincolnshire Cricket.
For more information about the sessions, visit www.lincscricket.co.uk or email Justin Owen: justin.owen@lincscricket.co.uk — Pic credit: Everyone Active

Delivered by Everyone Active, the weekly sessions at Market Rasen Leisure Centre and West Lindsey Leisure Centre in Gainsborough provide a sociable, low impact way to stay fit while keeping the spirit of the game alive.

Councillor Westley praised the enthusiasm of participants in the game she attended. She said: “I’ve had such a great time today getting involved with walking cricket. What stood out to me most was the joy and positive energy of everyone playing. Seeing older people and those with reduced mobility taking part and enjoying a sport was really encouraging.

“I highly encourage anybody aged 50 and above, or those with mobility issues, to give it a try. It’s a friendly and welcoming group and the sport is great for staying active and socialising with others.”

Justin Owen, Head of Participation and Growth at Lincolnshire Cricket, has supported the Walking Cricket sessions at Market Rasen in recent weeks. He attended alongside Councillor Moira Westley and council officers and was delighted to see the group thriving.

He said: “It was fantastic to have both West Lindsey District Council and the local councillor spend the session with us. This allowed her to get involved, have a chat with the participants and hopefully now in a better position to champion the benefits of what sessions like these can bring to people. She is welcome back anytime.”

West Lindsey District Council own both leisure centres in Market Rasen and Gainsborough, which are managed by award-winning operator Everyone Active.

Peter Smith, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said: “Walking cricket sessions are a brilliant way for those aged over 50 in the local community to improve their physical health and mental wellbeing.

“Players of all abilities will receive a warm welcome at both centres and we are confident the relaxed atmosphere and social element of the game will keep people coming back for more.”