90 years young

courtesy of Katielee Arrowsmith

Whilst most senior citizens celebrate their 90th birthday with a gentle stroll and a cup of tea, sprightly Bert Cunningham turned up for his regular weekly game of walking football at the World of Football in the Edinburgh Corn Exchange when he turned 90 years young.

 For the last four years Bert has hardly missed a weekly session as he takes up his customary position in goals with his team- mates from the Edinburgh City Walking Football group. 

 Walking Football is the fastest growing activity for older adults in Scotland with thousands of men and women in their 50's to 80s now playing each week with Bert probably the oldest regular player in the UK.

 The impact on the lifestyle of walking footballers is incredible with most participants in a recent survey carried out by Walking Football Scotland showing huge improvement in their fitness, weight reduction, flexibility, mental well being and social connectedness. 

Bert Cunningham is a tremendous role model for the sport, providing a real inspiration to his fellow players, many of whom have recovered from major illness and injury but have now been given the opportunity regain fitness and create long term friendships.

Walking Football Scotland send our best wishes to Bert, on behalf of walking footballers across the country and hopes to see him between the goal-posts for many years to come.

Happy Birthday Bert.

Bert with his team-mates at the World of Football in Edinburgh.