JANUARY maybe the traditional month to try a new fad diet or fitness craze but for some in the South West inspiration can now be found in the joy of rediscovering an old team sport but at a more leisurely pace.

Walking Football may have taken the fitness world by storm but now it's the turn of Netball to re-engage with a lost generation who feel exercise or team sport is not for them.

1610 is one of the first in the South West to offer Walking Netball at its leisure centres in Somerset. Its has been launched at centres in Bridgwater and Crewkerne this month with more plans for Walking Netball at 1610 centres in Yeovil, Glastonbury and Taunton later this year.

Walking Netball tackles inactivity and social isolation amongst older people. The game is slowed down to a walking pace to make it an ideal sport for older people or those recovering from injury.

1610 Health Development Manager, Amanda Godsell says that Walking Netball is designed so that anyone can play it regardless of age or fitness level.

“From those who have dropped out of the sport they love due to serious injury, to those who believed they had hung up their netball trainers many years ago, Walking Netball really is for everyone. Its fun and it gives a real sense of camaraderie as much as the health benefits on offer.

"It can give those who feel isolated an outlet, provide an activity for those who don’t want to run to keep fit anymore as well as offering a stepping stone for those looking for a pathway back into netball. And the added bonus is that first session is free to try."

1610 hopes to set up a Walking Netball league if there is sufficient demand for the sport. It has received funding to train six staff to deliver the sport by England Netball.

The first session is free and thereafter is £3.50 per person to play. They are free for Wellness Works members, which also includes people who have been referred by their GP.

Sessions are now available at the Robert Blake Sports Centre in Bridgwater every Friday 7pm-8pm.