For many people it’s too early to be thinking about New Year’s resolutions, but in the South Hams they are already committed to providing entry level activities that will help people become healthy next year.

An option for people of all ages to try is the fast-growing sport of walking netball.

Walking netball is one of the newest forms of walking sports to emerge in our communities and England Netball is inviting women to come and give it a try.

It’s really easy to get started because the first two taster sessions are totally free. They take place at the Quayside Leisure Centre, Kingsbridge, on January 7 and 14 from 9.30-10.30am. If enough people attend the sessions will continue at a small cost.

The rules of walking netball are essentially the same, but by reducing the speed and taking out jumping, the game becomes much more accessible to those who are less active, injured or have previously been unable to take part due to ongoing illness.

With less impact or stress on the joints, walking netball leaves plenty more time for lots of laughter and fun.

Polly, who started walking netball in January, said: “I never really enjoyed sport until now. I saw a session on local television and thought I’d give it a try. I love the fun and camaraderie, great exercise for the replacement hip!”

Since its launch in 2016, England Netball has been running a number of sessions across the country which have engaged hundreds of women - many of whom haven’t played netball in over 40 years and whose ages generally range from 30-80 years.

The game is proving a real ‘life changer’ and participants are not only seeing an improvement in their general fitness (including lower heart rates and blood pressure), but many have seen improvements with specific physical ailments and mental health too.