England Walking Football – January Newsletter 2026

A New Year Together: Celebrating, Competing & Remembering

Welcome to the January 2026 edition of the England Walking Football newsletter. This month reflects everything that makes our community so special — from celebrating success and togetherness to taking time to remember and honour those we have lost.

We look back on our inaugural AGM & Awards Evening, international action against IWFF Wales Women, strong performances from squads across the age groups including our Men’s Over 70s, and tournament success for St George’s in Wales. 

We also pause to remember the sad passing of a dear friend within the walking football arena, whose contribution and presence will not be forgotten. As we move into a new year, we do so united — proud of our progress and mindful of the people who make England Walking Football what it is. 🙏⚽️

🙏The passing of our dear friend 

On behalf of everyone at England Walking Football, we would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Laurent Saint-Pierre. Laurent was a true icon of Walking Football and made an incredible contribution to the game, both in France and with All Star St Porchaire. He was known and respected by so many, always welcoming, always generous with his time, and always passionate about the sport he loved.

His enthusiasm and dedication will never be forgotten, and his legacy will live on within the Walking Football community.

Laurent will be greatly missed by us all.

🎉EWF's inaugural AGM & Awards evening

On Saturday 17th January, members came together at the Great Barr Hotel for a truly memorable evening as England Walking Football hosted its first-ever AGM and Awards Evening. It was a fantastic night celebrating everything achieved during our inaugural year, with players, managers, and volunteers recognised for their dedication, commitment, and outstanding contributions 🏆✨ 

The room was filled with pride, laughter, and a real sense of community as awards were presented across all age groups.

Players’ Player Award winners:

• Kelly Holsworth – O40s
• Jeanette Stevenson – O50s
• Sue Puddephatt – O60s
• Greg Marrett – O50s
• Stephen Falconer – O60s
• Mark Potts – O65s
• Dave Poole – O70s

Managers’ Player Award winners:

• Kelly Holsworth – O40s
• Nicky Davies – O50s
• Catriona Barron – O60s
• Tony Williams – O60s
• Tony Drinkel – O70s

A huge congratulations to all our winners and thank you to everyone who has supported England Walking Football during its first year ❤️⚽️

Our next AGM will take place in January 2027. 

⚽ EWF Women vs Wales IWFF Women 

England Walking Football had the absolute pleasure of hosting the IWFF Wales Women squads on Saturday 17th January at Castle Vale Stadium.

It was a fantastic day of walking football, with the Wales players proving to be a great group both on and off the pitch.

The three England squads came out on top overall on this occasion, and we’re already hoping for a rematch in the not-too-distant future.

A standout performance came from Paula Drane in the Over 60s, who marked her debut in style by scoring an impressive hat-trick.

Congratulations to Melanie Benson, Jordyn, Jane, Rachel Harwood, and Mike Walker on their squads’ performances, and to all the players who proudly represented their nations.

Special thanks to Chloe Jeremic-West for organising the fixture and bringing the Wales squads along — your efforts were greatly appreciated 🙏

⚽ EWF Men's 70s vs. HP SC England Parkinson's

The first game of the season for our O70s men produced a cracking game of walking football at Curzon Ashton FC. The EWF running out comfortable winners, in spite of an incredible performance from the opposition keeper.

In the first half the teams were pretty evenly matched, and as the game went on, with much more possession, the EWF side, aided by a couple of Dave York goals sealed a 2-0 victory.

⚽ St George's Success 

At the end of the month, the Over 35s St George’s team travelled to Wales to compete in the Cwmbran Celtic Women’s Winter Tournament. The squad consisted of four EWF players, supported by three guest players, and faced strong opposition throughout a competitive group stage. Two tightly contested matches ended in goalless draws, alongside an impressive 4–0 victory, which saw the team finish top of the group on goal difference.

Momentum continued into the knockout stages with a confident 2–0 semi-final win, followed by a disciplined and well-managed 1–0 performance in the final to secure the tournament title.

A special mention goes to guest goalkeeper Jill, who delivered an outstanding series of performances and was deservedly crowned our Player of the Tournament 🏆👏

Well done to all involved! 

🛒 Kit Orders Online

You can order England Walking Football kit packages and separate additional items directly from our website. This now includes the option of a brand new personalised kit bag, the bags are a great size with a separate boot compartment in the bottom, perfect for tournament travel. 👉 Order Here

📋 Governance 

Just a reminder that all policies and procedures can be found in our EWF Men and EWF Women's sections of our website. We're always looking for volunteers with particular skills and expertise that can help us to progress. If you have any questions, or would like to know more, please email: keeley@englandwalkingfootball.co.uk

📍February Training 

Women's training

🗓 Sunday, February 1st

🕐 12:30 - 14:30 Women's O40s, 50s and 60s 

📍 Castle Vale Stadium, Farnborough Rd, Birmingham, B35 7LQ

Men's training

🗓 Sunday, February 8th

🕐 12:30 - 14:30 Men's 050s, O60s, O65s and 070s

📍 Castle Vale Stadium, Farnborough Rd, Birmingham, B35 7LQ

⚽ Top venue with top-quality 3G pitches, changing rooms, free parking and a bar for an obligatory pint afterwards!

📣 New managerial announcements

England Walking Football are delighted to announce Allan Macleod as the new men's o75s player manager. 

Here are a few words from Allan:

“Having long campaigned for an EWF Over 75s team, I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to both play and manage. I recently celebrated my 78th birthday and believe I’m the oldest and longest-serving male player, having made my debut vs Wales in November 2019. As players move through the age groups, it’s vital they’re given the chance to continue playing. I’m excited to build a competitive squad of current players, with one or two additions, ahead of the World Masters in August. Huge thanks to Simon and Brendan for helping make this happen.”

We are delighted to welcome Jane Morley as our new Women’s Over 60s Coach. With decades of experience across playing, coaching, and football administration, Jane will be a huge asset to our organisation. Jane's commitment to developing players and maintaining high standards aligns perfectly with our values. 

Head Coach Mel Benson said:

“Jane has such a vast experience of football from playing through to coaching and administration. She really does know football inside out and is one of the pioneers of the game for women and girls. She sets and maintains high standards and she takes a personal pride in all she does. I know not only will she be a massive asset to the coaching team, she will be a firm favourite with the players too. We are very lucky to have Jane join us and I personally am very much looking forward to working with her.”

We’re delighted to announce Jordyn Ward as a new Women’s Over 60s Coach/Goalkeeper coach. Jordyn brings a lifelong love of sport, extensive playing experience, and a people-first approach to coaching. From stepping into goal when no one else would, to developing a passion for guiding and encouraging others, Jordyn’s journey embodies everything this team is about.

Head Coach Mel Benson said:

“Jordyn brings passion, calm leadership and a real understanding of the game. Her journey as a player gives her a unique perspective, and I know she’ll be an incredible asset to our Women’s Over 60s team. I’m delighted to welcome her on board.”

📆 Tournament and Fixture Calendar - 2026

You will have seen on Spond that we're working hard behind the scenes to fill up the diary for 2026, ensuring there is plenty of football for everyone. There will be more to come as we're building relationships with other nations all of the time. Please remember to indicate your availability on Spond and be reminded that this doesn't guarantee selection. Please hold off booking travel and accommodation until you hear from your team manager. 

We appreciate there is a lot planned and that not everyone will be able to attend every event, we want to ensure there is a variety of opportunities at different costs and times of year so that there is something for everyone. 

EWF's priority will be the Masters World Cup in August - please ensure you keep this free as your managers will want to select their strongest squads. 

👏 Show your support 

On Sunday 22nd February, our Men's Over 40s have their second set of international fixtures following their strong start again the Welsh Dragons at the end of last year. Please come along to show your support if you can. Good luck guys! 

📣 Let’s Grow Together – Follow & Share!

Please follow and share our pages to help our Walking Football community thrive.

• 🌐 Website: https://www.englandwalkingfootball.co.uk
• 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570737868294
• 🧑‍💼 LinkedIn: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570737868294
• 🐦 X: https://x.com/englandwalking?s=21&t=eXYr7COnFBI91yKxAyOYLg
• ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EnglandWalkingFootball

📸 Your content matters — whether it’s a photo, a match result, or a great moment, help us celebrate everyone fairly by sending in updates, especially during tournaments!

💷 Support Us for Free – Easy Fundraising

Support England Walking Football every time you shop online — at no cost to you!

How It Works:

1. Sign up for free: Easy Fundraising - England Walking Football (EWF)
2. Shop as usual through the platform
3. Retailers donate a portion of your spend to us!

Your support helps fund more training, equipment, and opportunities.

Scan the QR code below or visit: https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/england-walking-football-ewf

Stay Connected & Get Involved

We value your voice. Got ideas, feedback, or want to get involved? Reach out via our website or on social media.

Thanks for being a valued member of the England Walking Football community.

Stay active. Stay connected. Keep walking with purpose!

⚽🚶‍♂️– The England Walking Football Committee