SEPTEMBER 4 saw the inaugural Springboard Walking Football Challenge take place at Lords Meadow Leisure Centre’s Astroturf pitches.

Four local sides battled it out for the pleasure of winning the trophy, with a combined average age of around 60.

Most of the matches were keenly contested and North Tawton Allstars emerged as worthy winners.

Such was the confidence of their captain Steve Ward, that they played some qualifying matches with one less player.

As tiredness set in they borrowed the services of Guy Cochran, who jumped ship from another team.

This may have been the deciding factor in their eventual triumph!

My team, Newton Revels, saw our tactics unravel when two of our players were injured in the warm up. I kid you not.

Thanks to all the players who took part and those who helped with the overall organising and catering.

The tournament raised approximately £400 for Crediton Food Bank and we plan to host further events in the Autumn to highlight the issue of poverty, both national and global.

Crediton offers wonderful support to the Food Bank with many local businesses acting as regular donors.

This was a fun afternoon but significant challenges remain for many people struggling with the current Cost of Living crisis.

Many thanks on this occasion to Alan Ord, Crediton Football Club and Nick Dean, Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, who helped support the tournament. Also Eran from Baobab Cafe, who provided the food.

Julian Gebler