Tim Corry, owner of Guardian Angel Carers Farnham & Guildford says he is delighted to support Godalming Walking Football Club, and just as pleased that both organisations share the same positive approach to ageing – with health, fitness, a sense of community, social connections and independence to the fore.
“What Godalming Walking Football Club has achieved since they formed in 2017 is phenomenal,” says Tim Corry. “They’ve had amazing success on the pitch – winning national cups, tournaments and leagues. And they’ve provided an amazing experience for so many men at a stage in life when we know that maintaining an active, sociable lifestyle is absolutely vital.”
“We were excited to learn about their plans to launch walking football teams for women, too,” says Tim. “And so when they approached us for sponsorship we were delighted to help. And we’ve committed to the sponsorship for three years, because we wanted to ensure that this was a partnership, rather than just putting our logo on shirts.”
Shared values.
Jim Mellish, co-founder, with Mike Royce of Godalming Walking Football Club, says: “Our club shares lots of values with Guardian Angel Carers. It’s widely recognised that, as people age these days, they would much rather stay in their own home, and be supported by the type of homecare service that GAC provides. But, of course, enjoying life as you age and staying in your home is dependent on both your physical and mental health.
“Staying active, maintaining social connections, having a purpose – these are all critical aspects of health in later life, and that is exactly what an activity such as walking football provides.”
“A lot of people turn to individual sports such as golf, tennis, badminton as they get older,” says Jim. “But for us, there’s nothing quite like that feeling of being part of a team – enjoying the banter before and after the game and building friendships.”
As one of the fastest growing international sports, walking football is now played by men and women across many age groups from 40 years plus to 75 years plus and includes dementia, Parkinson’s and kick out cancer teams.
In November 2024, Godalming’s Over 60s team won the inaugural National FA Walking Football Cup. Having won through County and Regional stages, they went on to lift the trophy at St George’s Park, the FA’s national football centre.
“Winning the National FA Walking Football Cup was a huge thrill, and has given the Club a real boost, says Jim Mellish. “Attracting a great sponsor and supporter in Guardian Angel Carers is another step forward for us. We have a lot of ideas and plans to build on our success, and so we’re very grateful they’ve chosen to commit to us for three years, at least.”
Independence – the ultimate goal.
Business owner Tim Corry established his Farnham homecare business in May 2021 after serving 12 years in the Royal Air Force. Witnessing his own grandfather live independently in his own home to the age of 96 established his understanding of the importance of wellbeing and quality of life.
“Everyone knows that we have an ageing population, and that all of our public services are under the most tremendous pressure. It’s absolutely vital that we all play our part – as individuals and as community heads – to facilitate and encourage healthy, sociable activities that will contribute to greater independence as we age. Godalming Walking Football Club is doing exactly that. We’re delighted to support them and wish them every success in the seasons to come – both on the pitch and off.”
For more information and to get involved in walking football, go to: https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/godalmingwalkingfc
Guardian Angel Carers Farnham & Guildford: https://www.gacarers.co.uk/farnham/