Puffin Festival walking football tournament success
Amble’s 2018 annual Puffin Festival saw newly formed Amble East End Walking Football Club host a brand new Over 50s Tournament.
Clubs travelled from as far as Catterick and Teesside to be part of the tournament. Amble East End is fast developing quite a reputation for itself as more than equal competition for its opponents; even in the short time it has been formed.
The hosts were able to enter two teams – each looking to enjoy the atmosphere, and to continue to grow as a group in preparation for entry into the Blue Flames league for 2018/19 season.
The sun shone, the shop was fully armed with refreshments, trophies and medals were polished. It promised to be a great occasion. And the day did not disappoint!
Many clubs, all more experienced, turned out in all their glory, their intentions being to become the first ever tournament winners. With over four hours of continuous play, of 20 minute matches, and a brief visit from ‘Tommy Noddy the Puffin’’ himself, East End found itself through to the semi-finals. Another win saw them as surprise finalists. After a close game, and very little to separate the two sides, Amble East End found themselves celebrating a 1-0 victory against Middlesbrough. They had done it! Who’d have thought?! It was back to The Radcliffe Club for refreshments and the award ceremony.
Shield Winners: Amble East End
Plate Winners: Grangetown
Cup Winners: Newcastle United Foundation
Cup Runners-up: Amble East End
The Club’s own Striker, Del Brooks picked up the Golden boot award for Top scorer, as well as Player of the Tournament!
The Club pays testament to the commitment, time, and support of every individual who plays a voluntary part in the journey of Amble East End Walking Football Club.
Special thanks must go to supporters of this event, without whom this tournament could not have happened: Amble Town Council, Amble Puffin Festival Committee, The Radcliffe Club, Styles by Helena, The Bengal Spice Tandoori, James Calvert Spence College, all participant Clubs, and to the Amble East End Club members who helped on the day.
The Club meets on Tuesdays, year-round, at James Calvert Spence College, 6-7pm. New Players (Over 40s) always welcome.
Josh Rutherford
