People in Bolton will soon be able to play walking cricket as the Lancashire Cricket Foundation expands its sessions.
Walking Cricket sessions already exist in Urmston, Denton, and Stretford, proving themselves to be popular and especially for older people.
Thanks to backing from the Lancashire Cricket Foundation, residents in Bolton will be next to benefit.
In partnership with Bolton Manbassadors, and men’s mental health project which has proven to be successful in the town, The Sunnyside Club are organising Walking Cricket sessions for anyone regardless of cricketing ability.
These sessions will be delivered at The Sunnyside Park, the home of Deane and Derby Cricket Club, on Chelsea Road in Bolton.
Adam Warbrick, Bolton Manbassadors Project Lead, said: “Bolton Manbassadors is an award-winning men's mental health project delivered by Bolton at Home.
“Through our activities such as these Walking Cricket sessions, our goal is to create safe, social spaces for men to connect, make new friends, and participate in activities that benefit both their physical and mental wellbeing.
“We’re proud that the Sunnyside Club and Deane and Derby Cricket club have signed up to become Manbassadors.
“They’ll play a key role in helping us to raise awareness locally of men’s mental health issues and engage with those men that need to access support.”
The Walking Cricket sessions are not just for men, but for everyone.
One of the first participants was 60-year-old Azam Makki, a retired ex-cricketer.
He said: “It was great for me to pick up a ball and have a bowl without being in a competitive and pressurising situation.
“I’ll be back again with a friend of mine.
Amin Patel, who is leading the sessions as a volunteer, is organising the sessions.
He said: “It’s a great experience taking on some responsibility and organising these sessions which can only help me in the world of work in the future.”
Sessions will be held on the outdoor grass pitch during spring and summer, moving to an indoor sports centre during the autumn and winter months.
The sessions are completely free to attend, and light refreshments will be provided.
For more information visit the website. www.boltonathome.org.uk/bolton-manbassadors.”
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