WALKING cricket will begin at Lords Meadow Leisure Centre on Friday, September 9.

Paul Ticehurst explained: “Walking cricket is aimed at keeping over 55s active, both physically and mentally, as well as providing opportunities for meeting new people.

“Other than being 55 years of age or older, the only other restriction is cricket without the exertion of running.

“Walking cricket is a mixed-gender sport for all abilities.

“It is organised as a match of four or five pairs of players comprising each team.

“Pairs on opposing teams are matched by ability/experience so that beginners are matched with beginners.

“This means we can accommodate the complete range of abilities from total beginners to experienced ex-players.

“It is played indoors so runs are scored by hitting the ball against the sports hall walls in addition to ‘runs’ being accumulated by walking between the two wickets.

“Each team starts with 200 runs. Each pair bats and bowls for four overs, each wicket results in a five-run penalty rather than the usual loss of one’s wicket and end of that player’s innings. In this way everyone gets equal time at the crease.

“Inexperienced players, those with restricted arm movement or lazy players like myself, can bowl underarm.

“All playing equipment is provided and the only dress restriction is non-marking trainers suitable for a sports hall floor.”

Mr Ticehurst added that all sessions cost £5 and are held on Fridays from 1pm to 3pm.

He said that the first two sessions (September 9 and 16) are introductory sessions and are free.

The sessions are made possible with the support of Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, Devon Cricket Board and Age UK Devon.