A new FA Walking Football Cup is offering players aged 50+ of all levels the chance to experience competitive football in a friendly, reduced-pace environment, with local qualifiers taking place in Chelmsford, Billericay and Dagenham.

This year, The FA have launched an exciting new national competition aimed at promoting inclusivity and active lifestyles amongst the older age groups. Walking Football teams from across the country now have the chance to compete for their very own FA Cup title in this rapidly-growing sport. The competition features three categories - Mixed 50+, Mixed 60+ and Women’s 40+ - and Essex’s qualifiers are now underway.

Local and regional rounds are being held at various venues across Essex, providing an opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and progress to the national stages. The 50+ category took place on Saturday 14th September at Melbourne Park in Chelmsford, while it was the turn of the 60+ teams on Thursday 19th September at Billericay Town FC. Sunday 13th October sees the Women’s Regional Qualifiers (East & South East) take place at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Dagenham.

This competition marks a significant milestone for Walking Football, and Essex County FA Football Development Officer, Jake Fairman, explained: “The mixed qualifiers were a real success, and the Essex Walking Football League did a great job being at the centre of running these. The Men's Regional Qualifier is now coming up on Sunday 13th October, the same day as the women’s. We’ve nominated one team from the 50+ age group, and one team from the 60+.”

View the menus above for more information about upcoming Walking Football matches and how to participate. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on X and search for the ‘EssexFootball’ page on Facebook.