A GAME aimed at encouraging people over 50 to exercise and socialise risks losing its popularity following the introduction of a new rulebook.

Walking football, which does not allow running or jogging, has proven a popular sport in Oxfordshire with eight walking football teams across Oxfordshire.

But players are now worried the introduction of more regulations risk smothering the game and putting people off, although some have welcomed the move.

Presently there are no standardised laws for the sport but the Football Association announced last week it intends to make a rulebook for the game.

This has raised concerns it may discourage those who do not want to take the game seriously.

Abingdon Almost Athletes player Bob Baldwin, 64, says this would end up having the opposite effect than the one intended.

He said: “We want this sport to be as inclusive as possible and we don’t want to put people off by introducing too many rules.”

Walking football is aimed at over 50s but there is no absolute rule on a player’s age and unlike in regular football matches, males and females can play in the same game.

Sean Qualter, 46, who is involved with Lifeline MYOX4 walking football team, said: “There may be some resistance as a lot of clubs play only for fun and the possibility of restrictions such as same gender and strict age rules may exclude certain people.”

However, there are also those in the county who believe the introduction of an official manual will help minimise discrepancies.

Rules such as how high the ball can be kicked and whether there should be a limit on the number of touches a player can take before passing are currently contested.

Bob Larter, 69, who plays for Chalgrove Cavaliers, said: “It’s about time there was a definitive rulebook.

“Imagine if the Premier League said when you go to play at Man City you play by these rules but when you play at Arsenal you play by different rules.”

Stan Horlock, 62, who plays for Cherwell Strollers, agrees with Mr Larter: “Every tournament has different rules so we have to learn exactly what rules the tournament is playing before getting involved.”

Despite the concerns, Sarah Wood, Oxfordshire FA’s Football Development Manager believes the FA’s decision will help the game to grow.

She said: “I think a rulebook will help provide structure to walking football, especially when teams play in competitions, it will help both players and referees.”

A list of walking football clubs in Oxfordshire can be found at: www.walkingfootballunited.co.uk/oxfordshire