Former Crystal Palace striker Andrew Johnson, always known for his ability to out-pace defenders, last week helped to launch a scheme which deliberately encourages footballers to stroll their way into the penalty box.

Former Palace stroker Andy Johnson (centre, in black) at last week’s Active Eagles launch

Johnson was the star turn at the launch of the CPFC Foundation’s over-40s Active Eagles programme.

Funded by the Mayor of London, the scheme aims at getting older residents in Croydon, Sutton and Bromley to be more active – including through playing  walking football.

Other activities being organised under the scheme include soccercise, table tennis and short-mat bowls.

The launch day at Selhurst Park was also supported by a number of CPFC Foundation partners including the Professional Footballers’ Association, Croydon Council, Surrey FA, London FA, Affinity Sutton and WeightWatchers.

“We’re pleased to be working in partnership with the CPFC Foundation as this will also boost our Croydon Heart Town programme, which is helping the British Heart Foundation to tackle heart disease in the borough,” said Louisa Woodley, Croydon Council’s cabinet member for families, health and social care.

“Active Eagles is a great example, demonstrating how exercise can be simple, sociable and fun, even as you’re getting older. Moving more and maintaining a healthy weight is important at any age. We hope that even more residents will be encouraged to sign up to Active Eagles and get started on their journey to improving their health and overall well-being.”

The Active Eagles programme includes free access to numerous activities, such as walking football, recreational vets’ football, extra-time clubs and a 12-week education and activity programmes, namely Move It Lose It (women only) and Fitter Fans (men only).

For more information on the activities, and details of when and where you can attend, contact Bethany Towle via bethanytowle@cpfcfoundation.org or call 020 8768 6015.

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