MORTON'S over-70s side strolled to success as they clinched the first trophy of the season.

The top team of senior citizens were crowned champions as they brought the first ever Glasgow Cup Walking Football title back to Inverclyde.

It was a big achievement for Bill Stewart and his team, who train every week in the Inverkip Hub.

Walking football sessions run by Morton in the Community have been a big hit, with dozens of men taking part in an initiative which provides much more than just a game of football.

Now there are plans to open up more training sessions across the area as it catches on.

Bill, 71, said: "It was great to take part in a big tournament and to win it.

"There were eight teams taking part, so our guys did really well.

"We are all come along because we love getting the chance to play football again.

"Most of us used to play but there are others who come along because they have always wanted to play but never got the chance.

"But it is not just about the football - it is about coming along to the hub every week and having a chat in the hall afterwards with some tea and cake."

The over-70s took on other teams from the west of Scotland in a tournament organised Glasgow Life and played on the astroturf at the Emirates Arena.

Bill, from Inverkip, was one of the first people to sign up for walking football when it started here three years ago and in the process he was reunited with an old friend for the first time since primary school, Angus Bowes.

He added: "We went to Mearns Street School together and it was great to meet Angus again.

"Walking football is a great way to meet up with other people."

The oldest player in the team, at 78, is Norman Graham.

Norman told the Tele: "I just love playing football.

"I will keep going as long as I can."

Morton in the Community's Jonny Roy runs the sessions at the Inverkip Community Hub.

They are aimed at over-50s, with around 20 people playing every Friday at 1pm.

Jonny said: "We are so proud of the team and delighted they won.

"Walking football is about so much more than just playing.

"We are looking at setting it up in other places in Inverclyde and we have a women's team here in Inverkip as well now."