New walking netball group to launch in Bury St Edmunds

A new walking netball group is to launch in Bury St Edmunds this Friday and will be free for a trial period thanks to the support of two St Edmundsbury Borough councillors.

The walking netball group aims to encourage people who may not otherwise be involved in sport, to get more active, and provides a good social activity at which people can meet and make new friends.

Councillors Diane Hind and Bob Cockle, who both represent wards in Bury St Edmunds, have each given £750 from their locality budgets to the project, which will be run by Abbeycroft Leisure.

Councillor Hind said: “We have lots of older residents on our estates who I am sure would love to get involved in a brilliant sports activity such as this. Not only does it provide physical exercise, but also the chance for new friendship, all of which are better for people’s health and wellbeing.”

Councillor Cockle said: “It is a brilliant project. We hope that lots of people will come along and join in this free activity. It is a good excuse to get out of the house, shoot some hoops, have fun and meet some new people.”

Walking netball coach Tracey Butcher, who runs the sessions, said: “I’m grateful for the support of both St Edmundsbury councillors which means that we can offer these sessions at Bury Leisure Centre initially for free.  For those who want to try it out – wear loose sports clothing, appropriate footwear and bring a bottle of water as well.”

Sessions take place every Friday at 5.15pm at Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre and last an hour. For more information contact Tracey Butcher on 07939 500318 or visit www.jettsnetballclub.yolasite.com