Wiltshire Walking Sports Festival success for many

The Wiltshire Walking Sports Festival, held at Springfield Community Campus, attracted almost 100 attendees who took part in a variety of low-impact sporting taster sessions designed to support activity, health, and community connections.

Participants were able to try walking versions of football, hockey, rugby and netball, as well as pickleball, all in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Many also took the opportunity to learn about local clubs and groups, enabling them to continue participating beyond the one-day event.

Walking sports are particularly popular with older adults, those returning to exercise after a break, and people recovering from injury, offering cardiovascular, muscular, and social benefits in a more accessible format.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.

One participant said: "I enjoyed the football. I was pleased that there were both women and men there, and to meet the group that plays in Chippenham, which is my local team. I will join in next month."

Another added: "This was a well-attended event, very friendly and well organised by Active Wiltshire. Wiltshire seems to be at the forefront of creating opportunities for older people to enjoy and benefit from exercise, and long may it continue!"

Others shared similar enthusiasm.

One said: "I played hockey until I was 40 and it was so good to find old skills coming back."

Another said: "This was a fun and thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours of play for everyone who took part!"

In addition to sports, attendees were able to access free health checks from the Living Well Team.

One participant said: "I thought the idea of having a quick health check was a great one. It was well organised and had a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Well done everyone."

Cllr Mel Jacob, cabinet member for communities, engagement and corporate services at Wiltshire Council, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people come together to take part in this year's Walking Sports Festival."

Cllr Jacob said: "Walking sports provide a fun, accessible and inclusive way for people to stay active, improve their physical and mental wellbeing, and make new social connections.

"For many people, they can also provide a route back into sport and physical activity, helping to build confidence and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

"I'd like to thank the Community Sport and Wellbeing Team for organising the event, Springfield Community Campus for hosting, and all the local clubs, community groups and volunteers who delivered the taster sessions."