The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Lee Mason, added his not inconsiderable weight to the campaign started by the City of Portsmouth Hockey Club to introduce the sport of walking hockey. Last night the Mayor joined members of the Club, at least half of whom have only picked up a stick for the first time in the last few weeks.

Mayor Mason is keen to promote activity in any sport that encourages people to get out of their armchairs and take some exercise with it's obvious health benefits.

Organiser, Alf Wimshurst, is keen to point out that even the absolute beginners seem to be enjoying themselves as they are being carefully integrated with the more experienced Club players in a fun and friendly way.

There have even been recent discussions with the Stroke Association with a view to introducing the sport to recovering stroke victims. There are also many other areas of patient recovery that could benefit.

The walking hockey section of the Club have welcomed the sponsorship of the Portsmouth Property Association who have covered the cost of essential equipment to ensure that the game is played safely. PPA chairman, Neil Hawkins, enthused that his organisation are particularly keen to support this project following the recent illness of one of their past chairman.

The walking hockey Club is currently meeting on a fortnightly basis on Tuesday evenings at Admiral Lord Nelson School starting at 8.30pm with the next meet on 4th December. If you fancy having a go just turn up with appropriate footwear and warm clothing - the Club has plenty of sticks.

(Photo credit Lauren Stewart)