Walking footballers raise £500 for hospital cardiac unit

A WALKING football team have raised £500 for a hospital cardiac rehabilitation unit.

The players are members of Rotherfield United FC, which is based at Bishopswood sports ground in Gallowstree Common, and most of them are over 60.

They raised the money by holding social events including days at the races and group dinners.

The footballers chose to support the unit at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading because a number of their fellow players were treated there.

Ian Massey, 74, who chairs the club, said: “We’ve had several members with cardiac incidents who’ve ended up there and the Royal Berks has been fantastic with what it’s been able to do for them.

“The rehab unit has played a key part in their post-operative development into becoming healthy again and fit enough to join the walking football team. We’re very realistic about health. The warm-up activities we do before and after our games are all part of health and welfare development.

“We do a lot, particularly social events. In October we have a big social fundraiser at one of the local village halls. Last year we raised £3,200 we’re on track to beat that this year.”

The men presented a cheque to Alison Daw, cardiac nurse specialist, and Claire Gray, cardiac rehab exercise co-ordinator, who both work at the rehab unit.

Ms Gray, 43, said: “Our equipment has been through the mill and essentially needs an upgrade.”