Football Clubs Provide Social Link for Over 60s

Football clubs around the country are opening their doors to older people seeking a social outlet where they can enjoy exercise and football.

The clubs are hosting a scheme, now in its third year, aimed at over 60s called Extra Time. Venues include seven premier league football clubs and over 20 other professional football clubs.

"Extra Time" is funded by the Football Association and Sport Relief with similar schemes organised by clubs including Everton, Spurs, Liverpool, Blackburn and Fulham.

Peter Sangster aged 84 said: "It breaks up the week for me. If I didn't come here I would just turn on the TV at home." Adding: "When you're working you think 'roll on retirement', but it's not quite like that when you get there."

Mr Sangster was fortunate to have spotted an ad for Extra Time in a local newspaper. He is one of a large number of older men who have lost their wives and thus their social networks. Once retired they do need an outlet to replace the stimulation from work and the lost social life.

Extra Time organiser Femina Makkar explained that older men who have worked throughout their lives feel lost following retirement, so the scheme is indeed a lifeline for them.

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