A walking football club has bagged a prize in recognition of its impressive year.

Eastleigh FC's Walking Football Club received high praise at the annual Walking Football Association (WFA) awards, where it has been 'highly commended'.

Despite not clinching the top spot, which went to Barnet, the Eastleigh club made significant strides in its operations.

Establishing a ladies' section, launching a mobility section, and offering a weekly session for players recovering from various medical conditions were some of the highlights of the year.

The club's success on the field saw them winning multiple trophies, contributing to an active membership of around 200.

Moreover, they raised over £3,000 in support of the Hampshire Air Ambulance and Eastleigh Basics Food Bank.

READ MORE: Walking footballers support life-saving charity close to their hearts

Chairman John Hunter expressed pride in the club's journey over the past decade, from humble beginnings with just six members to now providing weekly activities for more than 150 members.

In a separate category, Heather Kirkland from Eastleigh FC Walking Football was honoured as the female referee of the year.

Heather's footballing journey began in 1969 when she was part of the successful Southampton Women’s team that won numerous accolades, including the European Cup in 1977.

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Transitioning to walking football, Heather became an England Women’s over 60’s player and coach.

After an injury, she took up refereeing, quickly making a name for herself as a WFA tournament referee and officiating at St George’s Park for the FA National Cup.

Eastleigh’s head of refereeing, Dave Wilkin, stated that Heather’s award was well-deserved recognition for her dedication and hard work.

Heather is set to travel to Brazil in July for matches against Brazil and Colombia, and will also participate in the World Nations Cup in Alicante in October, where she hopes to both referee and manage the England team over the fortnight.

She was also awarded the WFA Grassroots Award for Coach of the Year in 2023.

Last year the club marked its 10th year with a £618 donation to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The club play on Thursdays between 11am and 2.30pm and on Monday evenings, all year round and these sessions are open to all. In addition, women play on Sunday afternoons, starting at 3pm with a further session on Wednesday evenings.