They say walking football is a gentler pastime — the beautiful game at a more reflective pace. Try telling that to the Kettering over-50s Reds, who last Sunday strode, stomped and, on occasion, elegantly power-walked their way to the Northamptonshire Walking Football League Division 1 Championship title.

Freshly promoted from Division 2 last season, the Reds have wasted no time upsetting the order of things, winning the league at the first attempt — the kind of seamless transition usually reserved for Hollywood remakes and Premier League parachute clubs.

Heading into the final round of fixtures, the division was tighter than a physio’s strapping, with just three points separating the top four teams. In such moments, leaders often deliver Churchillian addresses. The Reds’ manager Clark Cowell opted for something more… pragmatic: “No pressure, lads — enjoy yourselves, keep it simple, play for each other… and if you happen to win all four games, we might win the league.” Truly stirring stuff.

Remarkably, the players took him at his word. Three wins later, the improbable became distinctly possible. The fourth match, however, began with an ominous portent: an early goal conceded. It was at this point the manager was informed that victory would crown them champions. He promptly relayed this information — tactically, of course — and made a crucial adjustment. What followed was a ten-minute burst of vintage, high-octane, over-50s walking football: three unanswered goals, a 3–1 turnaround, and a title clinched with all the swagger of men who had played together for decades rather than two short years.

To complete the afternoon’s haul, striker Wayne “Sooty” Sutton sauntered off with the Golden Boot — proving that while pace may fade, a poacher’s instinct most certainly does not.

Just over two years together, and already champions. A fantastic achievement. For the Reds, the future may indeed be walked, but it’s being walked in the right direction — and at this rate, briskly enough to worry the rest of the league.

So, if you are over 50, and looking for a new way to keep fit and healthy, then why not come and join the KTFC Walking Football Team. KT Community Trust are holding weekly sessions at Kettering Sports Park, on their new 3G pitch, every Thursday 10am-11am. Subs are £5 per person. Come and have some fun, make some new friends and boost your mental and physical health. Open to Ladies and Men contact clarkmcowell@ktfccommunitytrust.com