Walking Cricket continues to grow across the North East, with Durham Cricket Foundation now delivering weekly sessions at 11 active hubs across County Durham, Sunderland, South Tyneside and Teesside.
First launched in 2021 with just three hubs, the programme has steadily expanded in response to growing demand, increasing to eight hubs in 2025 and now reaching eleven weekly active hubs across the region.
Sessions run indoors from September to mid-April before moving outdoors for the warmer months. Delivered throughout the week, the programme offers both social and competitive formats, ensuring sessions remain accessible, inclusive and suitable for all ability levels.
Lauren Kamperman, Head of Community Inclusion and Growth at Durham Cricket Foundation, said: “The growth of Walking Cricket across the region has been exciting and we are now serving more players than ever before. We love introducing people to this accessible format of the sport and showcasing how adaptable and inclusive cricket can be. We now have 11 active hubs because there is real interest and demand for the programme. It’s encouraging to see that there is a clear appetite for community-based activity that prioritises enjoyment, connection and wellbeing. While each hub has its own identity, they all share the same welcoming and supportive atmosphere.”
Designed to help older adults reconnect with the sport, Foundation’s Walking Cricket programme has developed into a region-wide community programme that supports physical activity, mental wellbeing and social connection.
As a slower-paced version of the traditional game, Walking Cricket removes common barriers to participation while retaining the teamwork, skill and social elements of cricket. It is particularly popular with people returning to activity, managing long-term health conditions or simply looking for a friendly and enjoyable way to stay active.
Our participants’ feedback consistently highlights the programme’s positive impact, with players reporting increased physical activity, friendly social interactions, great fun and for many, Walking Cricket has become a valued part of their weekly routine.
One regular participant said: “I come every week for exercise, competitiveness and humour. You get to know people, stay active and have a good laugh.”
All sessions are fully inclusive and beginner-friendly with the exception of the competitive session for skillful play. Equipment will be provided and participants are encouraged to attend in comfortable clothing and suitable footwear.
Durham Cricket Foundation continues to work closely with local partners, leisure providers and councils to ensure Walking Cricket remains accessible and welcoming, supporting healthier and more connected communities across the North East.
For more information about the programme and for winter indoor session details check this page: https://www.durhamcricket.co.uk/play-cricket/walking-cricket/
Durham Cricket Foundation is grateful to The National Lottery for their support of our Walking Cricket hubs at Barnard Castle and Shildon.