GLENAFTON Athletic provided plenty of proof that the beautiful game is alive and kicking among East Ayrshire's residents when they hosted a 'walking football' tournament at Loch Park recently.

Teams from the Glens, Annan Athletic, Queen of the South, Stranraer, Maybole and Drumchapel all gathered in New Cumnock for the tournament, which was sponsored by local social landlord, Netherthird-based Shire Housing Association.

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

For those following the fortunes of the host club there was extra reason to smile as the Glens team emerged victorious at the end of the day – though all those who took part joined in the post-match hospitality at the Campbell Hall.

Alan Thomas, Shire Housing Association's community engagement co-ordinator, said: "What a really fantastic event. The weather stayed good, the teams all played the matches in great spirit and it was a home win for the Glenafton guys!

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

"It was great to see. Now I know they won’t mind me saying, some of the guys in the teams playing no doubt thought they’d never pull their boots on again; football really is life for many folk.

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletics walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

Glenafton Athletic's walking football tournament was sponsored by Shire Housing Association (Photo: Shire HA)

"It’s not just about scoring goals, supporting a team. Guys getting together, interacting with other likeminded men, fresh air, exercise...walking football is a new lease of life for many of those involved."